Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has declared that he will not play the role of a political godfather or attempt to dictate the governance of the state after completing his second and final term in 2027.
Speaking on Monday afternoon, August 10, 2026, during the Hijrah 1448 luncheon hosted for members of the Muslim community at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, Governor Makinde emphasized that public office should focus on service to the electorate rather than maintaining political influence beyond one’s tenure.
The governor assured citizens that whoever succeeds him will enjoy full executive independence to lead without backseat driver oversight or interference.
Makinde committed to facilitating a seamless handover process once his eight-year administration concludes in May 2027. He noted that any incoming leader must remain directly accountable to the people of Oyo State rather than to any individual political benefactor.
”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,” Makinde stated.
Despite currently being on official leave, Governor Makinde attended the luncheon in person to express gratitude to the Muslim community for their support throughout his administration.
Reflecting on the event as his final Hijrah celebration in office, he urged residents and voters ahead of the 2027 general elections to evaluate potential political candidates strictly on their character, competence, and track record, rather than on religious or ethnic sentiments.
The governor maintained that building enduring public institutions and respecting the democratic process must take precedence over personal political legacies.
