Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has dismissed speculations about his intention to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections, stating that he is fully capable of speaking for himself without hesitation.
Makinde, who was responding to rumors about his political future, emphasized that any discussions regarding his plans were unsolicited and premature.
Speaking to reporters at Fashola Farm in Oyo, the governor made it clear that if he had any political ambitions, he would announce them publicly.
“If I have anything to say about my future, I will come out and say it. I’m old enough, and when the time comes, I’ll push my agenda. No one can push it for me,” Makinde stated.
Addressing concerns about Nigeria becoming a one-party state, Makinde warned that such a development could stifle democratic growth and limit opportunities for talented individuals to contribute to governance.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and ensure that democracy continues to thrive with diverse political participation.
The governor reflected on his own political journey, recalling how the people of Oyo State defied the odds to elect him in 2019 despite his previous electoral losses.
“The people of Oyo State made a bold decision in 2019. I had no godfather, no sponsors, and had faced two failed Senate attempts. But the people gave me a chance,” he said.
Makinde highlighted that his lack of prior political experience did not deter the people of Oyo from choosing him.
He shared how he presented a detailed development plan, the “Road Map to Accelerated Development of Oyo State, 2019-2023,” which convinced voters to give him the opportunity to lead. “We didn’t have a godfather, but we had a plan, and the people held us accountable,” he added.
The governor also spoke about his desire to continue the legacy of great South West leaders like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who championed innovative approaches to governance. He pointed to the Fashola Farm settlements, conceptualized in the 1950s, and the iconic Cocoa House, which was funded by proceeds from cocoa farming, as examples of visionary leadership.
Looking to the future, Makinde expressed his commitment to building institutions that will ensure good governance in Oyo State, regardless of who holds the position of governor.
“I want to leave behind strong institutions that will outlast me and guarantee good governance for generations to come,” he concluded.
