Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has pledged not to become a political godfather after leaving office in May 2027, assuring that the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) governorship candidate, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, and his running mate, Engr. Muftau Open Salawu, would govern independently if elected.
Makinde made the declaration on Monday at the Hijrah 1448 Luncheon held at the State Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan. He said his administration had fulfilled most of its promises and would ensure a smooth transition, allowing his successor to introduce policies that respond to the aspirations of Oyo residents.
The governor urged residents to assess political candidates based on competence, character, and commitment to public service rather than ethnic, religious, or other sentiments. He also called on governorship candidates to focus on issues and avoid divisive campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.
Makinde said his administration would use its remaining months in office to consolidate its achievements by delivering more impactful projects and taking decisions that promote development, peace, and prosperity. He thanked the Muslim community for its prayers and support, which he said contributed to the state’s progress.
He also commended security agencies for maintaining peace across Oyo State and their efforts in securing the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government. The governor recalled the support he received from Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists during the 2023 election despite attempts to influence voters along religious lines.
Guest lecturer, Sheikh Ismael Adekunle Usain, praised Makinde’s leadership qualities, describing him as reliable, focused, intelligent, patient, dedicated, and compassionate. The Chairman of the occasion and Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Chief Saka Balogun, also urged residents to continue supporting and praying for the success of the APM.
Adekanmbi thanked the Muslim faithful for their support for the current administration and promised to sustain the annual Hijrah celebration and other Islamic programmes if elected governor. His running mate, Engr. Muftau Open Salawu, also appealed for massive support for the party in the 2027 general elections.
The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, urged residents to remain united irrespective of religious differences, while goodwill messages from labour leaders, clerics, and community representatives commended the Makinde administration’s achievements in recruitment, infrastructure, and security.
The event was attended by Acting Governor Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, former Deputy Governor Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi, former Speaker Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, members of the National and State Assemblies, the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour representatives, service commanders, commissioners, permanent secretaries, and other government officials.
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