Agboola emerges SDP governorship candidate for 2027 Oyo election

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has selected Mogaji Olusegun Agboola as its candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State. This decision was made following a substitution plenary held in Ibadan on Tuesday, where members approved replacing the previous candidate, Michael Okunlade. The party emphasized that this move signified a new chapter in their preparations for the upcoming election, with Agboola tasked with bolstering the party's structures, reconciling its members, and promoting its agenda across Oyo State's 33 local government areas.

Speaking after his nomination, Agboola stated that the SDP's primary objective is to win the election, rather than negotiating political deals with other parties. He reiterated the party's resolve to take control of the state, emphasizing that they have no intention of engaging in any political negotiations. Agboola promised to introduce a unique approach to governance if elected, urging the state to move away from traditional methods of administration.

He proposed focusing on the development of Oyo State's human and material resources, aiming to turn residents' skills and abilities into sustainable economic opportunities.

Agboola also extended an invitation to other governorship candidates to participate in a public debate on their policy proposals, inviting criticisms and constructive discussions. He appealed to any aggrieved party members to return, assuring them that the SDP would operate an open-door policy, welcoming all perspectives and ideas.

Earlier, the outgoing candidate, Michael Okunlade, congratulated Agboola on his selection, acknowledging the importance of his emergence for the party. He praised the party's members for conducting the substitution process in a peaceful manner, and expressed gratitude to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for overseeing the election monitoring procedures.