By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Governor Seyi Makinde has cautioned against the growing calls for a religion-based succession plan in Oyo State, insisting that competence, integrity, and service to humanity should take precedence over religious considerations in determining the next governor.
Speaking at a recent public event in the state, Makinde challenged proponents of a Muslim successor narrative to reflect on the state’s political history since 2015, noting that all three senatorial districts—Oyo North, Oyo Central, and Oyo South—have consistently been represented by Muslim senators across three election cycles.
“Those who are saying the next governor must be a Muslim should go back and check the records,” Makinde said. “Since 2015 till date, the three senatorial districts in Oyo State have been represented by Muslims. So, it is not about religion; it is about what you can offer the people.”
The governor’s reference is anchored on the state’s National Assembly representation over the years. In the 8th Senate (2015–2019), Abdulfatai Buhari represented Oyo North, Monsurat Sunmonu served Oyo Central, while Rilwan Akanbi represented Oyo South. In the 9th Senate (2019–2023), Buhari retained Oyo North, Teslim Folarin represented Oyo Central, and Kola Balogun served Oyo South. In the current 10th Senate (2023–present), Buhari continues in Oyo North, while Yunus Akintunde represents Oyo Central and Sharafadeen Alli represents Oyo South, a pattern Makinde cited to reinforce his argument against religious zoning in leadership selection.
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Makinde stressed that governance should not be reduced to religious sentiments, warning that such a narrative could distract from the real issues of development and continuity. According to him, the state’s progress under his administration has been driven by policies rooted in inclusiveness, accountability, and people-oriented governance rather than sectarian considerations.
He urged political actors and stakeholders to instead focus their energy on identifying a candidate who embodies the fear of God, regardless of religious affiliation, and possesses a genuine commitment to public service. “What we should be praying for is a leader that has the fear of God and is ready to serve humanity selflessly,” he added.
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He further emphasized the importance of sustaining the developmental strides recorded in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic reforms under his leadership. The governor noted that the next administration must be built on competence and a clear vision to consolidate on the legacy his government has established.
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The Merit Newspaper reports that Makinde’s remarks come amid early political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with debates intensifying over zoning, religion, and power rotation in Oyo State. However, his position signals a firm push toward issue-based politics, as he reiterated that the future of the state should be determined by performance and capacity, not religious identity.
