Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has directed political appointees in his administration who are interested in contesting elective positions in the 2027 general elections to openly declare their ambitions.

Makinde gave the directive on Thursday during the Oyo State Government’s 2026 Iftar programme held at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, the governor urged the aspirants to pursue their ambitions on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He assured them of his support as long as they remained loyal to the people and committed to the development of the state.

Makinde said the directive became necessary following claims circulating on social media that he had not granted clearance to political appointees seeking elective offices, particularly those serving in his administration.

“I have read on social media that I have not given the go-ahead to political appointees who have ambitions to hold different political offices, including the governorship seat.

“So, henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position should bring out their billboards. And those of you who are bothered about the PDP crisis, add the party’s logo to the billboard; nothing will happen,” the governor said.

Makinde also used the occasion to appreciate Muslim faithful in the state for their prayers, support and cooperation with his administration, noting that these had contributed to the state’s development and progress.

Earlier in his lecture at the event, guest lecturer Fadilat Onihantu commended the governor for his leadership qualities and dedication to his family, faith and the people of the state.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Daud Akinola, praised Makinde for consistently organising the Iftar programme since the beginning of his administration and for supporting the Muslim community in the state.

He also urged Muslims to continue praying for the state and the country.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including a former governor of Oyo State and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, represented by Deputy Speaker Mohammed Fadeyi; Chief Judge of the state, Iyabo Yerima; and other government officials, religious leaders and traditional rulers.