As the political landscape in Oyo State gradually tilts toward the 2027 governorship race, Governor Seyi Makinde has firmly declared that competence and loyalty to the people of Oyo State—not personal allegiance—will determine who succeeds him.
The governor made this significant statement during the 12th Omituntun Annual Ramadan Public Lecture, held at the Ibadan North Local Government Motor Park, Agodi Gate, Ibadan. The event, which has become a major fixture in the state’s religious and socio-political calendar, brought together prominent Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, political leaders, and top government officials.
A Clear Succession Philosophy for 2027
Governor Makinde’s remarks come at a time when discussions around succession politics are intensifying across Nigeria. Rather than endorse a loyalist or political ally, the governor drew a sharp distinction between personal loyalty and loyalty to the state.
He disclosed that in conversations with fellow governors, a recurring issue had emerged: many successors, once installed, deviated from expectations and allegedly “misbehaved” in office. According to Makinde, the common mistake was selecting individuals based on personal loyalty rather than capacity and commitment to governance.
He emphasized:
> “Whoever emerges as my successor will be chosen based on competence and loyalty to Oyo State—not loyalty to Seyi Makinde.”
This statement is particularly noteworthy in Nigeria’s political environment, where godfatherism and patronage networks often influence leadership transitions. Makinde’s position signals a departure from personality-driven succession politics and places institutional continuity above personal political interests.
Seven Years of Governance: Achievements and Financial Discipline
Governor Makinde attributed his administration’s achievements over nearly seven years to his unwavering loyalty to the state and its people. Since assuming office in May 2019, his administration has consistently highlighted fiscal reforms, infrastructural expansion, and improved public sector accountability.
One of the governor’s most emphasized accomplishments is the payment of over ₦25 billion in outstanding gratuity arrears inherited from previous administrations. Pension and gratuity backlogs have historically been a major governance challenge across Nigerian states, leading to hardship for retirees.
Makinde further explained that his administration increased monthly gratuity payments from ₦1 billion to ₦3 billion. This adjustment, he said, is designed to ensure that by May 2027—when his tenure ends—no retiree in Oyo State will be owed gratuity.
This financial commitment reflects a broader governance philosophy centered on fiscal responsibility and social welfare stability. For civil servants and retirees, such reforms represent long-awaited relief after years of uncertainty.
Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport Upgrade: A Landmark Infrastructure Project
Another major achievement highlighted by the governor is the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport into an international airport.
Originally a domestic airport serving Ibadan and surrounding areas, the facility is undergoing extensive development to meet international aviation standards. The project is expected to boost economic activity, tourism, and religious travel in Oyo State.
Governor Makinde disclosed that all hands are on deck to ensure that Hajj pilgrims will be airlifted directly from the upgraded airport starting May 2026. This development would reduce logistical stress for intending pilgrims, who traditionally travel to Lagos or other states for international departures.
The airport upgrade aligns with broader regional development strategies aimed at positioning Ibadan as a key economic hub in southwestern Nigeria.
Omituntun Ramadan Lecture: A Tradition Beyond Politics
The Omituntun Ramadan Lecture predates Governor Makinde’s administration. However, he has sustained and expanded the initiative since assuming office. The annual lecture serves as a platform for spiritual reflection, public engagement, and community dialogue during the holy month of Ramadan.
Makinde stated that he intends to continue participating in and supporting the lecture even after leaving office, underscoring that the programme represents more than political symbolism—it is a bridge between governance and the people.
He expressed deep appreciation to the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State for their consistent prayers, cooperation, and support since 2019. He credited the prevailing peace in the state to collaboration between religious leaders and the government.
“Yes, people say the state has been peaceful since we came into office,” he noted. “But that peace would not have been possible without your cooperation.”
Donation of Buses to Mosques and SUV to Guest Lecturer
In commemoration of the 12th edition of the lecture, Governor Makinde donated seven buses to seven selected mosques—one from each geopolitical zone in the state. The gesture, according to him, is aimed at supporting the propagation of Islam and facilitating religious activities.
Additionally, the guest lecturer, Fadilat Sheikh Jamiu Ajadi Sanusi—popularly known as Ami Olohun—received a brand-new SUV in recognition of his impactful lecture and contribution to the event’s success.
The lecture, themed “Contentment,” emphasized spiritual discipline, gratitude, and peaceful coexistence.
Call for Caution and Steadfastness
Delivering the Ramadan lecture, Sheikh Sanusi commended the developmental strides recorded under Makinde’s administration but cautioned him against mischievous individuals who may surround political power.
He praised the peaceful atmosphere in Oyo State and urged residents to practice contentment, regardless of religious differences. According to him, religion should never be a source of division but rather a platform for unity and moral guidance.
He further described Governor Makinde as God-fearing and encouraged him to remain steadfast in doing what is right for humanity.
Ramadan as a Season of Perseverance
The occasion was chaired by former Oyo State Governor and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Ladoja, who reflected on the spiritual significance of Ramadan.
Oba Ladoja described Ramadan as a period of perseverance, tolerance, and divine blessings. He urged Muslims to embrace the month as a time for reflection, generosity, and unity.
Broad-Based Support Across Political and Religious Leaders
The event attracted prominent figures across political, religious, and traditional institutions. Among them were:
Monsurat Sunmonu, former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly
The Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola
Chairman, Oyo State Elders’ Council, Chief Saka Balogun
Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Abubakry Agbotomokekere
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin
Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented)
Also present were members of the National Assembly, state commissioners, permanent secretaries, religious leaders, service commanders, and traditional rulers.
The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the Muslim community for its continued cooperation and prayers for the administration.
Special prayers for the governor and the state were led by renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh (Dr) Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa.
Political Implications for 2027
Governor Makinde’s declaration sets a clear tone for Oyo’s 2027 governorship race. By rejecting personality-based succession politics and emphasizing competence and institutional loyalty, he has positioned himself as an advocate of governance continuity rather than political control.
In a country where leadership transitions sometimes trigger instability, his emphasis on peace and non-violence is also significant. He urged residents to pray that whoever becomes the next governor remains loyal to the state and avoids returning Oyo to eras marked by political violence.
As Oyo State approaches another political cycle, Makinde’s message resonates beyond party lines: leadership must be rooted in capacity, accountability, and devotion to public service.
Conclusion: Governance Beyond Tenure
The 12th Omituntun Annual Ramadan Lecture was not merely a religious gathering—it was a strategic intersection of faith, governance, and political foresight.
Governor Seyi Makinde used the platform to reaffirm his administration’s achievements, strengthen ties with the Muslim community, and set a principled benchmark for succession politics in Oyo State.
With infrastructure projects like the international airport upgrade, consistent gratuity payments, and sustained interfaith engagement, the administration is crafting a legacy narrative centered on peace, fiscal discipline, and institutional loyalty.
As 2027 approaches, the governor’s words will likely echo throughout Oyo’s political discourse: competence and loyalty to the state—not personal allegiance—must define the next chapter of leadership.
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