Former First Lady of Oyo State, Florence Ajimobi, has sparked political reactions after reportedly declaring that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is preparing for a serious showdown ahead of the 2027 Oyo State governorship election.

Speaking at a recent APC stakeholders’ gathering in Oyo State, Ajimobi was quoted as saying the party is ready to “go to war” politically against the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that the APC has both federal backing and financial strength to reclaim the state.

Her comments, which quickly circulated online, were framed as a call for aggressive political mobilisation rather than violence. Supporters present at the meeting reportedly responded with chants of “PDP must go,” reflecting growing confidence within the opposition party as 2027 approaches.

Florence Ajimobi, widow of late former governor Abiola Ajimobi, remains an influential figure within Oyo APC politics. Her remarks are being interpreted as part of a broader effort to re-energise party loyalists following the APC’s defeat to Governor Seyi Makinde in the 2019 and 2023 governorship elections.

According to party insiders, the APC believes the political climate in Oyo State is gradually shifting, especially with a sitting PDP government nearing the end of its constitutional tenure. The reference to federal backing is widely seen as a nod to the APC’s control of the federal government, which party leaders say will help strengthen campaign coordination and visibility.

Ajimobi reportedly told supporters that the party must prepare early, mobilise grassroots structures, and avoid internal divisions that previously weakened its chances at the polls.

The strong language used in the speech has drawn mixed reactions. APC supporters praised Ajimobi for what they described as bold leadership and clarity of purpose, saying the party needs firm voices to challenge the PDP’s dominance in the state.

On the other hand, PDP loyalists dismissed the comments as political rhetoric, arguing that Governor Makinde’s administration still enjoys significant grassroots support due to infrastructure projects, civil service reforms, and education policies implemented over the past years.

As of the time of this report, Governor Seyi Makinde has not responded publicly to Ajimobi’s remarks, and the Oyo State PDP has yet to issue an official statement.

Though the 2027 elections are still over two years away, political observers note that early positioning has already begun, especially in politically strategic states like Oyo. With Makinde constitutionally barred from seeking another term, the PDP is expected to field a new candidate, while the APC is working to rebuild unity after past internal rifts.

Florence Ajimobi’s comments suggest that the APC intends to play a more aggressive political game this time, focusing on funding, messaging, and alignment with national party structures.

Analysts say such early declarations are meant to signal seriousness, attract aspirants, and rally supporters, rather than announce any specific candidate.

As Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle, Oyo State is shaping up to be one of the key battlegrounds, with both major parties already laying down markers for what promises to be a highly competitive race.