Fresh details have emerged regarding the internal political calculations surrounding the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State, as Governor Seyi Makinde is yet to officially release expression of interest and nomination forms to any aspirant within the party structure ahead of the forthcoming elections.
Investigations by Goalpoachernews revealed that despite intense lobbying and consultations among party stakeholders, no aspirant has so far received the official nomination documents from the governor’s camp.
Sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations disclosed that former Commissioner for Finance and technocrat, Abimbola Adekanmbi, emerged as the consensus governorship candidate and has been considered by influential stakeholders within the political arrangement.
It was further gathered that discussions are also ongoing regarding the emergence of candidates for the three senatorial districts, 14 House of Representatives seats, and the 32 constituencies of the Oyo State House of Assembly.
Highly placed sources told Goalpoachernews that Governor Makinde is still engaged in wide-ranging consultations with critical political stakeholders, leaders of allied groups and loyalists across the state before final decisions are taken on the distribution of tickets.
According to insiders, the delay in issuing the nomination forms is strategic and aimed at preventing internal disagreements that could destabilise the emerging coalition ahead of the elections.
“There are still consultations at different levels. The governor does not want to take any action that could create avoidable tension within the arrangement. That is why no forms have been handed out yet,” a source disclosed.
Another source hinted that some aspirants who were initially pencilled down for various elective positions may eventually be dropped as negotiations continue.
“There is still room for changes. Some names earlier considered are being reviewed based on fresh political realities and ongoing consultations,” the source added.
The development has heightened political suspense within the state, especially among aspirants and loyalists awaiting clarity on the final list of candidates expected to fly the party’s flag.
It was believed the unfolding situation reflected the delicate balancing act being undertaken by Governor Makinde to maintain political harmony while strengthening the structure ahead of the electoral contest.
