The event, themed “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026,” is being projected as the official launch of Makinde’s anticipated 2027 presidential campaign.

The rally is also expected to feature the unveiling of a political alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State.

Sources within the PDP revealed that the gathering will include the formal presentation of aspirants seeking state and national elective offices under the APM platform.

This development comes amid recent defections of several political officeholders in Oyo State from the PDP to the APM, particularly those pursuing elective positions ahead of the 2027 elections.

Among the notable figures expected to be unveiled is former Commissioner for Finance, Bimbo Adekanmbi, who is reportedly positioned to emerge as the APM governorship candidate.

Other expected aspirants include Stanley Olajide, Olufemi Ajadi, and Shina Peller, who are said to be preparing to contest senatorial seats on the party’s platform.

Candidates for the House of Representatives and House of Assembly are also expected to be introduced during the rally.

Sources further disclosed that the event will be preceded by the signing of an alliance agreement between APM leaders and the Tanimu Turaki faction of the PDP.

According to insiders, representatives of both political camps are expected to formally sign the alliance documents ahead of the public event.

One PDP source familiar with the arrangement stated that the agreement would involve the national leadership of the APM and the PDP bloc aligned with Tanimu Turaki.

Preparations for the rally have reportedly intensified, with political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from both groups expected to begin arriving in Ibadan ahead of the event.

The rally is also anticipated to draw youth groups, traditional supporters, and political allies from different parts of the country.

Although Governor Makinde has yet to publicly confirm his intention to run for president in 2027, political associates and support groups have reportedly intensified pressure on him to enter the race.

Insiders also revealed that grassroots mobilisation and political consultations have increased significantly as part of broader efforts to strengthen Makinde’s national political profile.

The latest political moves are believed to be aimed at consolidating his growing influence while strengthening structures across Oyo State and beyond ahead of the 2027 general election.

The development comes months after Makinde reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP following a January 2026 meeting with President Bola Tinubu, where he advocated bipartisan cooperation on issues such as insecurity and poverty, while clarifying that such cooperation did not signal defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).