Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has pledged not to act as a political godfather to any politician in the state after his tenure ends in May 2027.
He assured that the governorship candidate of the Allied People’s Movement, Bimbo Adekanmbi, and his running mate, Muftau Open Salawu, would govern independently if elected.
Makinde stated this on Monday at the Hijrah 1448 luncheon held at the State Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
He noted that his administration had fulfilled most of its promises and would ensure a seamless transition, allowing his successor to introduce policies that meet the expectations of Oyo State residents.
ALSO READ: EFCC And The Freezing Of Osun State Accounts: Tinubu Killed Makinde, Other Opposition’s Joy | By Sola Abegunde
He emphasised that leadership must serve humanity and meet citizens’ aspirations, urging residents to evaluate politicians based on competence, character, and commitment to public service rather than ethnic, religious, or other sentiments.
Makinde also called on governorship candidates to embrace issue-based campaigns instead of spreading division ahead of the 2027 elections.
The governor reiterated that his administration would use the remaining months to consolidate achievements by delivering more impactful projects and making decisions that promote development, peace, and prosperity.
He expressed gratitude to the Muslim Ummah for their prayers and support, which he said contributed to the state’s unprecedented progress.
Makinde stated: “This is the last Hijrah I will attend as governor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to thank the Muslim community for their support.
“In the 2023 election, despite calls for Muslims not to vote for me, I received massive support and won by a wide margin.
“That was possible because Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists stood with us.
“I promise I will not be anyone’s godfather, including Bimbo Adekanmbi and Open Salawu. If given the opportunity, they will be accountable to the people of Oyo State.”
Makinde stressed that having spent eight years in office serving Oyo people, he would not seek to remain in control of the government after 2027, as his successor would be allowed to provide leadership without undue interference.
The governor said, “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 allowed to develop and implement policies in line with the aspirations and yearnings of the people.
“The essence of political leadership should not be the ability to control those who come after a public office holder, but the willingness to serve humanity and leave behind institutions and structures that can continue to benefit the people.”
He also commended security agencies for their role in maintaining peace in the state and securing the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government.
Guest lecturer, Sheikh Ismael Usain, speaking on “Qualities of a good leader,” praised Makinde’s uncommon leadership virtues, describing him as reliable, focused, intelligent, patient, dedicated, and compassionate.
Chairman on the occasion and chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Chief Saka Balogun, urged continued support and prayers for APM’s success in the forthcoming elections.
In his remarks, Adekanmbi thanked the Muslim faithful for their unwavering support to the present administration, assuring them that he would continue the Hijrah celebration and all other events of Islam if elected governor of the state.
He called on them to massively support the party.
Earlier in his welcome address, APM’s deputy governorship candidate, Salawu, said the Hijrah luncheon served as an opportunity to thank God for sustaining and supporting the programme every year, calling for massive votes for the party in the 2027 general elections.
Secretary to the State Government, Prof Musibau Babatunde, in his vote of thanks, urged residents to remain united regardless of religious differences.
Goodwill messages from labour leaders, clerics, and community representatives commended Makinde’s leadership, citing achievements in recruitment, infrastructure, and security.
The event was attended by Acting Governor, Bayo Lawal; former Deputy Governor, Hamid Gbadamosi; Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, represented by Deputy Speaker, Mohammed Fadeyi; former Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu; member representing Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency, Stanley Olajide and the member representing Iseyin/Kajola/Iwajowa/Itesiwaju Federal Constituency, Najimdeen Oyedeji.
Also in attendance were the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; President of the Oyo State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice T.M. Abdulganiyu; Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Adenike Fashina; Deputy Chief of Staff, Kazeem Adeniyi; commissioners, permanent secretaries, Prof Kamil Oloso, Iya Adinni of Yorubaland, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola; President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Sulaimon Ajewole; members of the League of Imams and Alfas; traditional rulers; Labour leaders; service commanders and other top government functionaries.
