Fresh political calculations ahead of the 2027 general election appear to be gathering pace after Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, and former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola paid a visit to former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta.
The high-profile meeting, held on Sunday at Obasanjo’s residence in the Ogun State capital, has sparked fresh speculation over possible political alignments ahead of the next presidential election.
Sharing photos from the visit on his Facebook page, Makinde disclosed that their discussions focused on issues affecting the country as Nigeria prepares for another election cycle.
“Earlier today, we visited Baba, His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR in Abeokuta. Our discussions centred on important national issues in view of the upcoming general election. We appreciate Baba for his wise counsel at this crucial time in our nation’s history,” Makinde wrote.
Although details of the private meeting were not disclosed, its timing has fueled political speculation, especially as Makinde has already declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election.
In May, the Oyo governor formally announced his presidential ambition, saying Nigeria needs urgent reforms to reverse the country’s economic and social challenges.
“The time to reset Nigeria is now,” Makinde declared during a political rally in Ibadan.
He argued that many Nigerians have been pushed into survival mode due to worsening economic conditions and called for a new direction in governance.
Makinde is expected to join a crowded presidential race that could include President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking re-election, Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The meeting has also drawn attention because of those in attendance. While Olagunsoye Oyinlola is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kayode Fayemi remains a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to renewed speculation about possible cross-party consultations ahead of 2027.
Former President Obasanjo has yet to publicly endorse any presidential candidate for the next election, although political observers have repeatedly linked him with Peter Obi’s presidential ambition.
The elder statesman has also remained in the spotlight in recent days following his renewed exchange of words with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over allegations relating to events during their time in office.
As political activities gradually intensify, the Abeokuta meeting is expected to generate further debate over possible alliances and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
