Former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Taofeek Arapaja Gbolarumi, has formally intensified his bid for the Oyo State governorship seat after submitting his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nomination form in Abuja ahead of the 2027 elections.
The submission marks a major step in the early political build-up toward what is already shaping up to become a highly competitive
governorship contest in Oyo State.
Political activities within major parties have continued gaining momentum despite the election still being months away, reflecting the growing intensity of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Gbolarumi’s decision to officially enter the race has immediately generated reactions within Oyo’s political circles, particularly among PDP stakeholders assessing the party’s succession plans as Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration gradually approaches its final phase.
The former deputy governor remains a known figure within Oyo politics due to his long-standing involvement in the state’s political structure and his previous service in government.
Supporters describe him as an experienced administrator with deep grassroots connections across multiple local government areas.
According to reports, Gbolarumi submitted the governorship nomination form at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja as part of the party’s preparations for the 2027 electoral cycle.
Party loyalists and supporters who accompanied him reportedly described the move as a strategic step toward consolidating the PDP’s hold on Oyo State following years of strong electoral performance under the current administration.
Political analysts believe the early declaration reflects increasing competition within the PDP as aspirants seek to position themselves ahead of internal consultations, endorsements, and possible zoning discussions.
Although the party has not officially unveiled its full governorship timetable for Oyo State, political observers say aspirants are already moving aggressively to secure support among party delegates and influential stakeholders.
The race is expected to attract multiple contenders from different political blocs within the PDP, making internal negotiations and alliance-building critical in the months ahead.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s influence is also expected to play a major role in determining the direction of the PDP governorship succession battle.
As one of the most influential political figures in the state, analysts believe his political endorsement could significantly shape the outcome of the party’s primary process.
However, observers note that Oyo politics has historically remained highly competitive and unpredictable, with internal party dynamics often influencing electoral outcomes as much as opposition strength.
Beyond the PDP, opposition parties are also expected to strengthen preparations ahead of the governorship contest.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) and other parties are likely to field strong candidates capable of mounting significant challenges in the state.
The growing political activity around Oyo 2027 reflects broader nationwide realignments currently taking place across major political parties ahead of the next election cycle.
Across Nigeria, politicians are increasingly beginning consultations, coalition talks, and strategic positioning despite the elections still being relatively distant.
Analysts say this early mobilisation highlights the high political stakes associated with governorship and presidential contests expected in 2027.
For the PDP in Oyo State, maintaining political dominance will likely depend on its ability to manage internal competition without creating divisions capable of weakening party unity before the election.
Some party members have already called for transparent consultations and inclusive decision-making processes to avoid disputes during the eventual primaries.
Meanwhile, supporters of Gbolarumi insist that his experience, political history, and grassroots network make him a strong contender capable of sustaining the PDP’s electoral success in the state.
The former deputy governor has yet to fully unveil his policy direction or campaign manifesto, but allies suggest his focus will include governance continuity, infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare programmes.
As political consultations continue behind the scenes, attention is now gradually shifting toward possible alliances, endorsements, and the emergence of additional aspirants within the party.
Observers believe the next few months could significantly reshape the political equation in Oyo State as parties intensify preparations ahead of the governorship race.
For now, Gbolarumi’s submission of the nomination form has officially signalled the beginning of another major political contest in one of Nigeria’s most politically influential South-West states.