Oyo governor says his successor will have the freedom to lead without interference after his eight-year tenure.
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.
Governor Makinde spoke on Monday while hosting members of the Muslim community at a Hijrah 1448 luncheon at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
The governor said after eight years in office, he would ensure a smooth transition and allow whoever succeeds him 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,” Governor Makinde said.
He urged voters ahead of the 2027 general elections to assess political aspirants based on competence, character and commitment to public service rather than ethnicity, religion or other primordial considerations.
“Leadership should be about service to humanity, not about control,” he said.
Governor Makinde also urged elected officials to prioritise the interests of citizens above personal and political interests, stressing that governance should focus on improving people’s lives.
The governor assured residents that his administration would remain focused on consolidating its achievements and delivering more projects and programmes before the end of his 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.
Governor Makinde thanked Oyo residents and the Muslim community for their support and contributions to the growth and stability of the state.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and ensuring that all segments of the state feel a sense of belonging.