The directive by Oyo State Governor and leader of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, that only the best grassroots politicians should emerge as the party’s candidates for the December 2026 local government elections has intensified consultations across the state’s 33 local government areas, with party stakeholders in Ido Local Government identifying Engr. Oladimeji Olatilewa Ayinla as one of the leading aspirants for the chairmanship ticket.
Governor Makinde, who addressed party leaders at a crucial stakeholders’ meeting on Friday, charged them to return to their respective local government areas and ensure that candidates emerge strictly on merit.
According to sources at the meeting, the governor said, “Go back home, consult widely and choose the best of the best. We need candidates who understand the needs of the people, know the terrain and have the capacity to deliver victory for the APM.”
The directive has since triggered fresh consultations in Ido Local Government, where party leaders and supporters are said to be weighing aspirants based on their acceptability, grassroots connection, leadership capacity and electoral value.
Political stakeholders who spoke on the development described Engr. Ayinla as a grassroots politician with a strong understanding of the local government and the challenges confronting its people, saying his profile aligns with the qualities outlined by the governor.
One party leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “If the selection is truly based on merit, popularity and the ability to win elections, Engr. Oladimeji Olatilewa Ayinla deserves serious consideration. He understands Ido, has remained accessible to the people and possesses the capacity to unite the party.”
Another stakeholder added that the governor’s emphasis on competence rather than personal interests presents an opportunity for the party to field candidates capable of delivering meaningful development at the grassroots.
”The governor has made it clear that this is not about personal loyalty but about who can serve the people effectively and secure victory for the party. That is why many of us believe Engr. Ayinla fits the description,” the source said.
Party faithful further noted that Ayinla has consistently demonstrated a passion for supporting people at the grassroots through various humanitarian and community-oriented initiatives.
They said his leadership style, which prioritises consultation, inclusiveness and service, aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s directive that only candidates with the capacity to serve the people and deliver electoral victory should emerge.
Many stakeholders believe that Ayinla’s understanding of the challenges confronting Ido Local Government, coupled with his engineering background and people-centred approach, places him in a strong position to drive development if given the opportunity to serve.
They expressed confidence that his emergence would further strengthen the party’s chances in the forthcoming council election.
With consultations continuing across Oyo State, political observers believe the final decisions reached by party leaders will determine not only the APM’s fortunes in the December council election but also the quality of leadership that will emerge at the grassroots level.
