Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said he will not become a political godfather who dictates the affairs of government to his successor 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 state capital.
He said after spending eight years in office serving the people of Oyo State, he would ensure a smooth transition and allow his successor to provide leadership without undue interference.
Makinde said: ‘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.
‘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.’
The governor also urged eligible voters to scrutinise the qualities of candidates seeking political offices ahead of the 2027 general elections, rather than allowing ethnicity, religion or other primordial considerations to influence their choices.
He said voters should assess aspirants based on their competence, character, track record and commitment to public service.
‘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.
‘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 said.
The governor assured residents that his administration would remain focused on delivering good governance and consolidating its achievements during 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.
‘Until the expiration of this administration, we will continue to make decisions and take actions that will promote development, peace and prosperity in Oyo. We will continue to work for the people and ensure that the resources entrusted to us are used for the benefit of the people,’ Makinde said.
He thanked the people of Oyo State for the confidence and support they had given his administration.
He also expressed appreciation to the Muslim community for its partnership and contributions to the growth and stability of the state.