RismadarVoice Reporters
August 10, 2026
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said he will not become a political godfather who dictates the affairs of government after leaving 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, Agodi, Ibadan.
The governor said after completing eight years in office, he would ensure a smooth transition and allow whoever succeeds him to provide leadership 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 allowed to develop and implement policies in line with the aspirations and yearnings of the people,” Makinde said.
He argued that political leadership should be centred on service rather than the desire to control those who assume office after a leader leaves.
“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 said.
Makinde also urged eligible voters to carefully assess candidates seeking political offices ahead of the 2027 general elections, rather than making decisions based on ethnicity, religion or other primordial considerations.
He encouraged voters, particularly members of the Muslim community, to examine the competence, character and record of political aspirants before casting their ballots.
“Leadership should be about service to humanity, not about control. As we approach another election period, I want to urge our people, especially our Muslim brothers and sisters, to hold those seeking political office accountable.
“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. Ask yourselves what they have done, what they can do and whether they genuinely have the interest of the people at heart,” the governor said.
According to Makinde, those entrusted with public office must place the interests of citizens above personal and political considerations.
“Governance is about improving the lives of the people. Those entrusted with public office must always put the interest of the citizens above their personal interests or political interests. That is the essence of leadership, and that is what our people deserve,” he added.
The governor assured residents that his administration would remain focused on good governance and consolidating its achievements throughout the remainder of its tenure.
“Our remaining period in office will be dedicated to consolidating the achievements we have recorded so far and delivering more impactful projects and programmes for the benefit of our people across the state,” he said.
Makinde added that until the end of his administration, the government would continue to implement policies and projects aimed at promoting development, peace and prosperity across Oyo State.
He thanked residents for the confidence and support they had given his administration over the past eight years, saying the government did not take the support for granted.
The governor also appreciated the Muslim community for its partnership and contributions to the growth and stability of the state.
Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, assuring that every segment of Oyo State would continue to have a sense of belonging in the affairs of government.
