Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has, again, put to rest speculations about his next political moves as he declared that he is not leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
This was as the governor also made it abundantly clear that his successor in office in 2027 will be determined by competence and loyalty to the people of Oyo State.
Makinde spoke at the 12th Omituntun Annual Ramadan Lecture, held on Thursday at the Ibadan North Local Government Secretariat Car Park.
The lecture was a spiritual and political gathering that brought together top political functionaries, religious leaders, technocrats, and other stakeholders from across the state.
The governor dismissed speculations that whoever that would succeed him would emerge through personal allegiance, declaring that such a sentiment would not play any role in the future leadership of the state.
Makinde stated firmly that the individual who will take over from him must demonstrate proven capacity and unwavering commitment to the development of Oyo State.
PHOTO Oyo Govs Media Unit
He said loyalty must not be to his person but to the people, emphasising that governance is about service and continuity of good policies for the collective good.
Promptly responding to a chanting of “wherever you go, we will follow” by a group of women who were at the event, Makinde reassured his supporters and party faithful that he was “going nowhere.”
He declared that he remained a committed member of the PDP, a response that was met with applause, reinforcing his loyalty to a party on which platform he was twice elected as the governor of Oyo State.
The 12th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture was not only a spiritual exercise but also as a platform for reflection on leadership, unity, and the future of the state.
The event featured prayers, goodwill messages, and admonitions on good governance and peaceful coexistence.
The highlight of the gathering was the announcement by Governor Makinde of a special gift to the Guest Lecturer at the Ramadan Lecture, Fadilat Sheikh Jamiu Ajadi Sanusi.
In appreciation of his contributions and impactful lecture, the governor Makinde presented the Guest Lecturer with a brand-new Jeep for his private use, a gesture that drew admiration and commendation from attendees.
As noted by some observers at the event, the annual Omituntun Ramadan Lecture once again underscored the engagement of the present administration with the religious communities.
It was also a reaffirmation of the consistency of the position of Governor Makinde on leadership succession, party loyalty, and people-centred governance in Oyo State.
