By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has directed political appointees in his administration with ambitions for elective offices in the 2027 general elections to openly declare their intentions, assuring them of his support if they remain loyal to the people and committed to the development of the state.
Makinde gave the directive on Thursday during the Oyo State Government’s 2026 Iftar programme held at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi in Ibadan.
The governor said the instruction became necessary following claims circulating on social media suggesting that he had not granted permission to political appointees, particularly those serving in his administration, to pursue elective positions.
“I have read on social media that I have not given the go-ahead to political appointees who have ambitions to hold different political offices, including the governorship seat,” Makinde said.
“So, henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position, bring out your billboards. And those of you who are bothered about the PDP crisis, add the party’s logo to the billboard; nothing will happen.”
The governor, however, advised the aspirants to pursue their ambitions on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stressing that party loyalty and commitment to the welfare of the people of Oyo State must remain paramount.
Makinde also used the occasion to express appreciation to Muslims in the state for their prayers, support and cooperation with his administration since he assumed office in 2019.
According to him, the prayers and goodwill of the Muslim community have contributed to the progress and development recorded by the state government in recent years.
“We appreciate the continuous prayers of our Muslim brothers and sisters in Oyo State. Your support and cooperation have played a significant role in the progress and development we are witnessing in the state,” the governor said.
Delivering the Ramadan lecture at the event, Islamic scholar Sheik Fadilat Muideen Onihantu commended Makinde for what he described as uncommon leadership virtues and his commitment to the service of humanity.
He urged political leaders to govern with sincerity and fear of God, noting that leadership remains a sacred responsibility that must prioritise the welfare of the people.
Chairman of the occasion and Daud Makanjuola Akinola thanked the governor for sustaining the tradition of hosting Ramadan Iftar programmes since the beginning of his administration.
Akinola noted that the gesture had strengthened the relationship between the government and the Muslim community in the state, while also promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.
“We must commend Governor Makinde for his consistency in organising this Iftar programme since the inception of his administration. It shows respect for religious harmony and support for the Muslim community,” he said, while urging Muslims to continue praying for peace, stability and prosperity in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, also appreciated the governor for his leadership and called on Muslims in the state to continue supporting government policies and programmes.
The event attracted several prominent personalities, including a former governor of the state and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; former Deputy Governor, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi; and the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi.
Also present were the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; member representing Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency, Hon. Dhikirulahi Olajide; member representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Hon. Shina Oyedeji; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.
Other dignitaries included traditional rulers, Muslim scholars, members of the League of Imams and Alfas, service commanders, commissioners, permanent secretaries and political leaders across the state.
The annual Iftar programme is one of the religious engagement initiatives of the Makinde administration aimed at fostering unity, interfaith harmony and collective prayers for the peace and development of Oyo State.
