The governor revealed that he plans to announce his preferred candidate before the end of the first week of May, as political activities continue to gather momentum across the state.
Makinde disclosed that extensive consultations are ongoing, involving elders, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders.
According to him, the process has already produced a shortlist of leading contenders, but no final decision has been reached.
“We are getting close to making a decision. I have been consulting widely with our elders, fathers of faith, and other critical stakeholders,” he said in a newsletter released over the weekend.
He stressed that selecting a candidate requires careful thought to ensure widespread acceptance.
The governor also denied claims that he had already secretly endorsed any aspirant, insisting that no one has been officially chosen despite ongoing speculation.
Makinde further hinted that his eventual political direction, including the platform he will support, will depend on the outcome of a pending ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The anticipated judgment is expected to address issues within the Peoples Democratic Party, which could shape his next move.
“There have also been questions about the platform on which we will proceed. For now, we await the decision of the Supreme Court regarding our party,” he added.