2027 poll: We’ll build on Makinde’s achievements — APM governorship candidate

The consensus governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State, Bimbo Adekanmbi, has promised to sustain and expand the developmental strides of Governor Seyi Makinde if elected in the 2027 governorship election.

Adekanmbi gave the assurance on Monday during a private meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Fresh FM, Yinka Ayefele, at the Ayefele Music House in Ibadan.

He stated that residents of Oyo State desire continuity in the people-focused programmes initiated by the Makinde administration, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, security and workers’ welfare.

According to him, his administration would strengthen and preserve the achievements already recorded by the current government if he emerges victorious in the 2027 election.

While soliciting support from the management of the radio station, Adekanmbi encouraged journalists to ask critical questions whenever he appears on their programmes.

He noted that there was still enough time before the elections to unveil his plans and policies to the people of the state.

Adekanmbi also praised the station for maintaining balanced, factual and unbiased reporting, urging it to sustain its professional standards.

Responding, Ayefele said the station remained committed to serving the public interest rather than promoting individuals.

He stressed that Fresh FM belongs to everyone and operates without bias.

Ayefele added that the station would support Adekanmbi if he proves capable of surpassing the achievements of Governor Makinde.

He advised the governorship aspirant to prepare adequately for the challenges ahead, describing the contest as a major responsibility.

“There are many experienced and intelligent politicians in the state, but your party selected you to fly its flag,” Ayefele said.

He also wished Adekanmbi success in his political ambition.

Reports indicate that Makinde recently presented Adekanmbi as his preferred successor during a stakeholders’ meeting involving members of his faction within the Peoples Democratic Party.

Several of the governor’s allies, political appointees, lawmakers and governorship aspirants in the faction are also said to have moved to the APM.

During the meeting, the governor reportedly appealed to other aspirants to support Adekanmbi’s candidacy.

Following the endorsement, Adekanmbi began consultations with prominent personalities across Ibadan.

Adekanmbi previously served as Commissioner for Finance under the administration of late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi and has continued to play active roles in governance and public affairs in the state.

In 2025, Governor Makinde appointed him chairman of the committee overseeing the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport, one of the administration’s major infrastructure projects.