A prominent Nigerian journalist and political analyst, , has claimed that the Governor of Oyo State, , might have defected to another political party if he were still serving his first term in office.
Otitoju made the remark on Friday while speaking on the Breakfast Show of , where he analysed the current political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, the governor’s political calculations could have been different if he were still seeking re-election.
The veteran broadcaster explained that first-term governors in Nigeria often face intense political pressure and may consider switching parties to secure a second term. However, he noted that Makinde, who is currently in his second term under the platform of the (PDP), does not have the same electoral pressure.
Otitoju further stated that many politicians tend to align themselves with the ruling party at the federal level when seeking political survival. He argued that if Makinde were still pursuing another term, the temptation to move closer to the centre of power could have been stronger.
Despite the speculation, Otitoju acknowledged that Makinde has maintained a relatively independent political stance and has continued to strengthen his influence within the PDP and across the South-West political landscape.
The comments come amid growing conversations about political realignments in the region following the emergence of of the (APC) as Nigeria’s president, with analysts closely watching the moves of influential governors ahead of future elections.