The Fayose vs Makinde 2027 political battle appears to be gathering momentum after former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, declared that he and other opponents of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde would work against him ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during an interview with journalist Seun Okin, Fayose accused Makinde of destroying the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure in the South-West and betraying the trust of party loyalists.
According to Fayose, Makinde allegedly dismantled his political structure within the PDP and sidelined key stakeholders who contributed to the party’s growth in the region.
“Seyi Makinde destroyed the South-West PDP. He took all my structures, betrayed my trust, and did a lot that is not fair in party politics,” Fayose said.
The former governor claimed that preparations were already underway to challenge Makinde politically in the next election cycle.
“In this coming Oyo election, we will work against him. The fire has already started,” he stated.
Fayose further revealed that he had formed alliances with individuals dissatisfied with Makinde’s leadership, including traditional figures in Ibadan.
“I was born in Ibadan, the current Olubadan was a colleague, and we are all working together, including the Olubadan and all Seyi Makinde’s enemies,” he said.
Using a Yoruba proverb to explain his position, Fayose remarked that even close associates could unite against a powerful individual.
“The Yoruba man says two frenemies will destroy a wise man. In 2027, he has a long walk with us,” he added.
Fayose Accuses Makinde of Betrayal
When asked what offence Makinde had committed, Fayose suggested that political grievances rather than personal animosity were responsible for the growing rift.
“We are politicians, not journalists. Makinde has taken the land of the deities, the deities are angry and they will take it back from him,” he said.
Fayose linked Makinde’s reported presidential ambition to the breakdown in their relationship.
“That was his undoing. He has a right to contest for President, but you don’t betray trust. We were all members of the G5. The election is not far away; we will get there,” he stated.
The former governor repeated his earlier assertion, saying that the alleged political missteps would eventually catch up with the Oyo governor.
“Makinde has taken the lands of the deities. The deities are angry and will take back their lands,” Fayose said.
‘Crowds Don’t Win Elections’ — Fayose
Responding to comments that Makinde remains popular among Oyo residents and has won elections convincingly, Fayose argued that public support and large gatherings do not always translate into electoral victory.
“Congratulations. My people loved me, but my candidate never won. When you see a crowd, don’t measure it as the result of an election. When they clap for you, don’t imagine it as victory. Politics is the more you look, the less you see,” he said.
Asked whether his comments amounted to a declaration of political war against Makinde, Fayose denied being at war with the governor.
“I have no war,” he replied.
When pressed on what would happen if Makinde eventually defeated him politically, Fayose simply responded:
“Time will tell.”
