Seyi Makinde Vows to Choose Competent Successor, Rules Out Loyalty to Himself

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that competence and loyalty to the state — not personal allegiance — will determine who succeeds him in office.

Makinde made the statement at the 12th ‘Omituntun’ Annual Ramadan Public Lecture held at the Ibadan North Local Government Motor Park, Agodi Gate, Ibadan.

Reflecting on conversations with fellow politicians, the governor said many leaders regretted installing successors based on personal loyalty, only for them to “misbehave” after assuming office.

“The common thread has been that they installed someone whom they felt would be loyal to them. Today, I have made up my mind that whoever would emerge as my successor would be based on competence and loyalty to Oyo State, not to Seyi Makinde,” he said.

He stressed that the state must not return to an era of political violence, regardless of party affiliations, and urged residents to pray for a peaceful transition in 2027.

Achievements and Financial Commitments

Makinde noted that his administration’s progress has been driven by a commitment to the state’s interests. He revealed that over ?25 billion had been paid to clear outstanding gratuities inherited from previous administrations.

According to him, monthly gratuity payments were increased from ?1 billion to ?3 billion, with the aim of ensuring that no retiree will be owed by May 2027.

The governor also highlighted the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport to international status as a major milestone. He expressed optimism that by May 2026, Hajj pilgrims would be airlifted directly from the facility.

Ramadan Lecture and Donations

Makinde thanked the Muslim community for its support since he assumed office in 2019 and called for continued prayers for his administration.

To commemorate the Ramadan lecture, he donated seven buses to mosques across the state and presented a brand-new SUV to the guest lecturer, Sheikh Jamiu Ajadi Sanusi (Ami Olohun).

Delivering a lecture on contentment, Sheikh Sanusi commended the government’s developmental strides and advised residents to be wary of divisive influences, while promoting peaceful coexistence.

Also speaking at the event, former Oyo State governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Ladoja, described Ramadan as a season of perseverance and tolerance.