Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has encouraged individuals interested in contesting the state’s governorship in 2027 to begin their campaigns without delay.

Makinde also advised aspirants to run on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite the internal crisis currently affecting the party.

The PDP has struggled with internal challenges since the 2023 general elections, as several prominent members have defected to other political parties. The party has also seen a number of its lawmakers and governors move to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with the most recent being Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently released the final list of candidates for the August 8, 2026 governorship election in Osun State, with both the PDP and the Labour Party (LP) absent from the list.

Despite the ongoing litigation and leadership disputes within the PDP, Makinde remained confident in the party’s prospects.

Speaking to party supporters in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday, the governor said aspirants should not be discouraged by the party’s internal issues.

“Today, I have freed everyone. Anyone who wants to contest for Oyo State Governor in 2027, please bring out your billboards,” Makinde said.

“Don’t be bothered about the PDP crisis. Go ahead and put the PDP logo on your billboards,” he added.