In a strategic move aimed at consolidating party unity and strengthening its electoral prospects, stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State have ratified a list of consensus candidates for key positions in the Oyo North Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision was reached during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday in Ibadan. The meeting brought together Governor Seyi Makinde, the state PDP chairman, and prominent party leaders from the Oke-Ogun axis, underscoring the significance of the gathering in shaping the party’s political direction.
Party insiders say the adoption of consensus candidates is part of a deliberate effort to minimize internal disputes, foster cohesion, and present a united front capable of retaining and expanding the PDP’s influence across the district.
Leading the list is Hon. Shina Peller, who emerged as the party’s consensus candidate for the Oyo North Senatorial District. A former member of the House of Representatives representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Peller is also a businessman known for his ventures under the Aquila Group. He previously contested the senatorial seat under the Accord Party before aligning with the PDP.
For the federal constituencies, Hon. Oyedeji Oyeshina O’shine was confirmed for Iseyin/Iwajowa/Kajola/Itesiwaju. A seasoned grassroots politician, he currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives.
In Irepo/Olorunsogo/Oorelope Federal Constituency, Abiodun Òní secured the party’s nod. Òní, a close associate of Governor Makinde, currently serves as Director-General of the Oyo State Mineral Development Agency and hails from Igbeti.
Niyi Adebisi, the state’s Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, was selected for Saki East/Saki West/Atisbo Federal Constituency. Adebisi is from Saki in Saki West Local Government Area.
At the state level, the PDP confirmed several candidates across constituencies. Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, the current Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, emerged for Ogbomoso South State Constituency.
Ayinde Sarafadeen Sassay, a long-standing party member and former local government official, was chosen for Irepo/Olorunsogo State Constituency.
In Oorelope, Jimoh Adisa Olabisi, popularly known as JAO, clinched the ticket. A community leader and party financier from Igboho, Olabisi has played a significant role in strengthening party structures in the area.
Salaudeen Kabeer Adebayo was selected for Saki West State Constituency. Currently serving as the Majority Leader of the Saki West Legislative Council, he is also known for youth empowerment initiatives through his NGO, Hope Never Dies.
Also confirmed for Ogbomoso South is Hon. Bisi Oluranti, the incumbent lawmaker, who has gained recognition for her advocacy on women’s inclusion and social welfare.
Observers note that the consensus arrangement reflects the PDP’s broader strategy to avoid the divisive primaries that have historically weakened party cohesion. By rallying around widely accepted candidates, the party aims to enter the 2027 elections with a stronger, more unified structure.
While the move has been largely welcomed within party ranks, political analysts say its success will ultimately depend on sustained internal harmony and the ability of the candidates to connect with voters across the district.
The PDP currently maintains significant political influence in Oyo State, and the latest development signals its intent to consolidate that position as the 2027 elections approach.