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Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has pledged that he will not become a political godfather who dictates the affairs of government after completing his second term in office in 2027. Makinde made the declaration on Monday while hosting members of the Muslim community at a Hijrah 1448 luncheon held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Agodi, Ibadan. The governor said that after spending eight years serving the people of Oyo State, he would ensure a smooth transition and allow whoever succeeds him to govern without undue interference.
Makinde stressed that political leadership should not be about controlling those who assume office after a leader’s tenure but about building institutions and structures capable of benefiting citizens beyond an individual administration. He said his successor would be given the freedom to develop and implement policies based on the aspirations and needs of Oyo residents. The governor also urged Nigerians preparing to vote in the 2027 elections to assess political candidates based on their competence, character and ability to serve, rather than allowing ethnic, religious or other primordial considerations to influence their choices.
The governor’s remarks come as political activities and discussions over succession intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State. Makinde, who is constitutionally limited to two terms, has repeatedly spoken about the need for continuity and strong institutions as he approaches the end of his administration. He said the remaining period of his tenure would be focused on consolidating the achievements of his government and delivering additional projects and programmes, while maintaining that his ultimate responsibility is to leave behind a state capable of progressing regardless of who occupies the governor’s office next.
