Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has promised not to control the affairs of Oyo State after completing his eight-year tenure in 2027. The governor also said he would not become a political godfather to whoever succeeds him after leaving office.
Makinde has endorsed former Commissioner for Finance, Bimbo Adekanmbi, as his preferred successor on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement. He said the next governor should have the freedom to govern independently and respond to the needs of the people.
Makinde spoke on Monday at a luncheon organised for members of the Muslim community at the Government House in Ibadan. The governor said his decision to support a successor did not mean he planned to remain politically influential after leaving office.
“I won’t be a political godfather to my successor,” Makinde declared.
Makinde promises smooth transition
Makinde said he would work towards a smooth transition when his administration ends in 2027. He also promised to respect the authority of whoever takes over the state.
“After eight years of serving the people of Oyo State, I will ensure that there is a smooth transition and that whoever succeeds me is given the opportunity to develop and implement policies in line with the aspirations and yearnings of the people,” he said.
Meanwhile, Makinde urged voters to look beyond ethnic and religious considerations when choosing political leaders. He said competence, character and commitment to public service should guide their decisions.
“Do not assess political aspirants based on ethnicity, religion or other primordial considerations. Look at their competence, their character and their commitment to public service,” he said.
The governor also urged residents to examine the records and intentions of politicians seeking their support.
“Ask yourselves what they have done, what they can do and whether they genuinely have the interest of the people at heart,” he added.
Leadership is about service
According to Makinde, political leadership should focus on improving the lives of citizens rather than promoting personal interests. He said elected officials must treat public resources as a trust and use them for the benefit of the people.
“That is the essence of leadership and that is what our people deserve,” Makinde said.
The governor added that his administration would remain focused on governance during its remaining months in office. He said the government would concentrate on completing ongoing projects and consolidating its achievements.
“Until the expiration of this administration, we will continue to make decisions and take actions that will promote development, peace and prosperity in Oyo State,” he said.
“We will continue to work for the people and ensure that the resources entrusted to us are used for the benefit of the people.”
Makinde thanks Oyo residents
Makinde thanked Oyo residents for supporting his administration throughout his eight years in office. He said the confidence placed in his government would not be taken for granted.
“We do not take that support for granted,” he said.
The governor had in May endorsed Adekanmbi, a former finance commissioner, as his preferred candidate for the 2027 Oyo governorship election. He also urged Adekanmbi to build on the policies and achievements of his administration if elected. Makinde’s latest comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship election. His endorsement has positioned Adekanmbi as a key figure in the emerging succession battle.
However, Makinde said his role would end with the transition after the election. He stressed that Oyo residents should hold whoever emerges as governor accountable for the quality of governance after 2027.
Read also: Makinde to inaugurate APM campaign council ahead of 2027 elections
