𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲-𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗗𝗣 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 2027 𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, backed by Governor Seyi Makinde, has announced plans to screen more than 3,000 aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections. The move is part of the party’s strategy to strengthen its internal structure and prepare early for upcoming political contests across the state and beyond.

Party leaders disclosed that the screening exercise will cover aspirants interested in various elective positions, including local government chairmanship seats, state assembly positions, House of Representatives, Senate, and governorship ambitions. According to insiders within the PDP, the large number of interested candidates reflects growing confidence in the party’s leadership and popularity in Oyo State.

Officials said the screening process would focus on competence, loyalty, grassroots support, and the ability of aspirants to uphold the party’s image. They added that the exercise is aimed at ensuring transparency and avoiding internal disputes that often arise during party primaries.

Supporters of Governor Makinde believe the early preparations could give the PDP a strategic advantage ahead of the 2027 elections. Political analysts also say the governor’s influence within the party continues to grow following his administration’s projects and political dominance in Oyo State.

Some opposition figures, however, have described the move as a sign of intense political competition within the PDP, warning that managing thousands of aspirants may become challenging if not handled carefully.

Despite the concerns, PDP stakeholders insist the process will be peaceful, credible, and inclusive. The party leadership has encouraged aspirants to remain committed to democratic values and avoid actions capable of causing division within the party.

The screening dates and detailed guidelines are expected to be officially released in the coming months as preparations for the 2027 elections continue to gather momentum across Nigeria.