Makinde and Alli Clash Over Credentials Ahead of 2027 Elections

A verbal conflict has emerged between Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Senator Sharafadeen Alli (Oyo South), the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as they prepare for the 2027 elections. Although Makinde is not contesting the governorship, he is focused on determining his successor.

The exchange began on September 18, when Makinde, addressing civil servants and supporters at the Oyo State Governor’s Office in Ibadan after his vacation, warned voters against choosing candidates with questionable credentials. He specifically criticized Alli, suggesting he was a lawyer who had never practiced in court.

In response, Bisi Oladele, the Director of Media and Publicity for Alli's campaign, refuted Makinde's claims, asserting that Alli has been a practicing lawyer since 1987 and has significant legal experience, including founding his own law firm in 1994. Oladele accused Makinde of demonstrating ignorance and bitterness in his remarks.