A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Ashipa, has stirred political discourse within Oyo State with a bold public statement questioning the ongoing silence of Governor Seyi Makinde over his possible successor ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a strongly worded commentary shared on social media page on Facebook, Chief Ashipa expressed deep concern over what he described as a “culture of suspense” currently defining succession talks in the state, even as the administration enters the midpoint of its second term.
“As close as I believe I am to His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, he has not confided in me, mid-year into his second term who his possible successor might be. I’ve asked close associates of the Governor, and they all agree: it is an untouchable subject,” Ashipa revealed.
With political permutations heating up behind closed doors, Ashipa noted that the Governor’s continued silence could inadvertently pave the way for political uncertainty, stressing that in the absence of a clearly endorsed candidate, party leaders and stakeholders would be forced to make independent choices.
“If His Excellency fails to plant a seed, he cannot prevent a weed from invading the farm,” he said metaphorically. “No one should blame Ashipa for backing any aspirant of his choice should the Governor remain silent.”
Taking a swipe at alleged “silhouette candidates” those rumored to be quietly positioning themselves without public declaration, Chief Ashipa warned against the politics of shadows and compensation, stating firmly that Oyo State is not a terrain for handpicked governance.
“I hate silhouettes. They are always dark, hidden — they represent Lucifer. Political offices are not sadaqat to be dashed out as compensation. This is not Rivers State. Oyo npe e. We cannot afford a Fubara scenario here,” he said in a direct comparison to the political turmoil in Rivers.
Quoting scripture, Ashipa further emphasized the need for political aspirants to step out of the shadows and face the electorate boldly.
“The Holy Scripture says, ‘no one lighteth a candle and keepeth it under a bushel.’ If the silhouette is real, let them come out openly and face the delegates and the electorate before it is too late.”
The PDP stalwart concluded by reiterating his desire for transparency and direction from the party leadership and Governor Makinde, warning that the future of Oyo State’s political stability depends on early clarity.
“I’m now over 70. I’m not expected to be in the opposition. In my next meeting with His Excellency, I will ask directly: ‘Dear Excellency, who is your likely successor?” He stated.
