2027 Realignment: Only Trusted, Tested Leaders Like Makinde Can Build Viable New Political Platform — Fagbemi

…As Politician argues Nigerians now prioritize performance over party labels.

As conversations around political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum, legal practitioner and politician, Mogaji Akin Fagbemi, has said only a tested and trusted leader such as Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, possesses the credibility and political structure required to successfully float a new political party with national impact.

Fagbemi stated that the success of any new political platform would depend largely on the trust, performance record, and grassroots influence of the leader driving the movement.According to him, Nigeria’s political landscape is filled with parties that failed to gain traction because they lacked strong and credible leadership.

He noted that Governor Makinde’s record in office, particularly in infrastructure development, education reform, healthcare improvements, and prompt payment of salaries and pensions, has earned him political capital capable of attracting both voters and political stakeholders.“Credibility is the currency of any new political platform.

A leader who has consistently delivered in office naturally commands public trust and legitimacy,” Fagbemi stated.

He further argued that beyond popularity, building a viable political party requires strong grassroots structures, funding capacity, candidate recruitment, and effective coordination across the country.

According to him, the political structure built around Makinde’s administration in Oyo State has demonstrated electoral strength across several local governments and could provide a solid foundation for any future political movement.

Fagbemi also observed that many Nigerians are becoming more interested in performance and governance delivery than party labels.“People no longer follow party names alone.

They support leaders they believe can deliver results from the grassroots to the national level,” he said.

He maintained that if a new political movement eventually emerges, leadership credibility would remain the deciding factor in determining its success.

According to him, Governor Makinde’s growing influence within and outside the South-West political space stems from what he described as “years of governance under public scrutiny and measurable performance.”