Governor Seyi Makinde is set to officially declare his plan to run for president on Thursday 14 May at a major political gathering in Mapo Hall in Ibadan.
The event is called Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026 and is expected to mark the formal start of his move toward the 2027 presidential election. It will also introduce a new political partnership between the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement, along with other allied groups supporting the governor and his political team.
People familiar with the plans say preparations for the rally have increased in recent days as political alignments continue to shift within Oyo State and across the South West region.
Grassroots organisers, political allies, and loyal supporters of Makinde are actively building networks and holding consultations as discussions continue on a wider political structure.
Observers say the effort is part of a bigger plan to strengthen support at the local level across Oyo State and beyond while also expanding Makinde’s influence in national politics.
Sources also say talks among key political actors have increased because of ongoing internal disagreements within the PDP at the national level. This has pushed some supporters and politicians to consider new political arrangements and alliances.
The rally is expected to bring together political leaders, youth groups, community heads, traditional supporters, and allies from different parts of the country who share interest in Makinde’s leadership style and vision.
Although Makinde has not yet made a public announcement confirming his presidential bid, his supporters and political groups have continued to call on him to enter the race and take part in the 2027 contest.
