Makinde Vows Not to Be Political Godfather to Successor
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that he will not become a political godfather who seeks
to control or dictate to his successor after leaving office in 2027.
The governor made the statement on Monday while hosting members of the Muslim community at a
Hijrah 1448 luncheon held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
Makinde, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a third consecutive term, stressed that after eight
years of serving the people of Oyo State, he would ensure a smooth transition and allow whoever
succeeds him the freedom to lead without undue interference.
“I won’t be a political godfather to my successor. 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.
He added that the true essence of political leadership lies in service to humanity and building lasting
institutions rather than seeking to control those who come after.
“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,” Makinde stated.
The governor also addressed political aspirants campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections, urging them to stop focusing attacks on him and his administration.
He noted that some candidates had made criticising his government the centre of their campaigns even
though he would not be on the ballot.
“I will never be a godfather to the coming Oyo State government. Bimbo Adekanmbi and Hon. Open
Salawu will be responsible to the people of Oyo State,” he said, referring to two of the aspirants.
He challenged candidates to present their own plans and programmes to the electorate instead of
dwelling on personal attacks.
Makinde called on voters, particularly members of the Muslim community, to hold aspiring office-
holders accountable and to base their choices on competence, character, integrity and public-service
records rather than ethnicity, religion or other primordial factors.
He assured residents that his administration would use the remaining period of its tenure to consolidate
achievements and complete projects that would deliver lasting socioeconomic benefits across the state.
The remarks come as political activities intensify in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 governorship election,
with several politicians positioning themselves to succeed Makinde.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
