By: ALAYAKI ONA-ARA
As Oyo State gradually approaches another defining political transition in 2027, the question on the lips of many stakeholders is simple but profound: Who is best prepared to sustain and build on Governor Seyi Makinde’s legacy?
Over the past years, Makinde’s administration has redefined governance in Oyo through infrastructure renewal, people-focused policies, and a governance style that blends accountability with inclusiveness. His tenure has set a standard many agree must not be abandoned to political experiments or inexperienced adventurers. What Oyo needs in 2027 is not trial and error, but preparedness, continuity, and tested leadership. It is within this context that Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja’s name continues to resonate as a strong, stabilising option for the future.
Arapaja is not a new name in Oyo politics. From his days as Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government to his service as Deputy Governor of Oyo State, and later as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Jordan, he has consistently demonstrated administrative competence and political maturity. His recent stewardship as PDP Deputy National Chairman (South) further attests to his ability to navigate both local and national politics with tact.
This pedigree places him in a unique position as a leader whose experience transcends the grassroots and the global stage. Politics, like governance, rewards preparedness. Ambassador Arapaja represents the politics of preparedness — a leader who has seen the cycles of government, understands the dynamics of the people, and carries the depth of exposure that can help consolidate Makinde’s gains.
2027: Why Arapaja Offers Oyo the Leadership Edge, Not a Learning Curve || By: ALAYAKI ONA-ARA
OYO AT A CROSSROADS: THE ARAPAJA ADVANTAGE AND THE FUTURE OF PROGRESSIVE GOVERNANCE
In 2027, Oyo cannot afford a detour into uncertainty. The challenges of governance — from economic expansion, to security, to education and health reforms — require someone who can hit the ground running on day one. Arapaja’s record proves he fits this mould.
OPINION: 2027 AND THE ARAPAJA OPTION—WHY OYO NEEDS A LEADER, NOT A LEARNER
Supporting Arapaja is not merely about loyalty to Makinde’s legacy, but about protecting the progress Oyo has made from being eroded by untested hands. His candidacy symbolises continuity, stability, and a bridge between Makinde’s reforms and the next level of development Oyo deserves.
[KONGE IRÉ 2027]Arapaja: A True Son of Ibadan, A Gift to Nigeria|| By:Alayaki Ona-Ara
Moreover, his grassroots connection makes him not just a technocrat or diplomat, but a people’s politician. This combination is rare — and valuable for a state as politically sophisticated as Oyo.
As 2027 approaches, the debate must shift from popularity contests to preparedness; from noise to substance; from experiments to experience. Oyo deserves a governor who can deepen democracy, sustain Makinde’s legacy, and expand the frontiers of development.
Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, by every indication, embodies this readiness. He stands as a candidate of continuity, stability, and vision — the face of prepared politics for Oyo State.
—
Written by: Hon. Olumide Oduola, popularly known as ALAYAKI ONA-ARA, a prominent youth of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Ona-Ara Local government, Oyo State.
