Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Sunday stated that he has no political godfather, attributing his rise to office and his governance solely to God, even as he assured residents that his administration has laid strong foundations for the state’s future.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service marking Oyo State’s 50th anniversary at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo in Ibadan, Makinde reflected on his journey to the governorship, which came after eight years of contesting for the office.
The Thanksgiving service formed part of a week-long programme commemorating the state’s 50th anniversary, which began with its official inauguration at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on January 26.
Events include religious services, cultural exhibitions, awards and dinner nights, and a public lecture titled, “Consolidating The Legacy, Navigating The Present And Reimagining The Future.”
Speaking on Sunday, Makinde said, “I want to congratulate all of us for witnessing Oyo State at 50, and I pray that we shall witness many more years on earth. When I became the governor of this state in 2019, I was the eighth civilian or executive governor of the state, and the significance of eight in the Bible depicts a new beginning. So, the journey has been a new beginning for Oyo. I didn’t plan it.
“I tell people that I am not ashamed to say that I don’t have a godfather, I only have God the Father. Some of the people are upset, they said I came to them to ask for support to be elected. Yes, you go somewhere to seek support. Does that make the person your godfather?”
Makinde said having been helped by God, he would continue to operate according to the will of God.
He also hinted at a succession plan, saying, “God has brought a particular governor at a particular time to signify a new beginning for the state. My charge to you as we celebrate this 50th anniversary is that we should not go back to where we were coming from. Let us stay focused.
“We have a team that is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde who will go out; members of the team are there to continue to work for the people of the state. We will continue to operate in accordance with the will and the dictates of God for Oyo State.”
He congratulated all residents for witnessing the state’s golden jubilee, calling it “a testimony of God’s grace” and urged citizens to stay focused on progress.
In his goodwill message, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, lauded Makinde’s leadership.
“I thank the governor for faithfully serving the people. The state has changed remarkably under his leadership. Nigeria is not a poor country, but only poorly governed. What Makinde is doing in Oyo State is a model for good governance,” Obi said.
Earlier in the service, the Archbishop of Ibadan Province, The Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, praised the state’s leadership and the contributions of past governors.
“God has been good to Oyo State. The infrastructure development, improved welfare of workers and pensioners, and peaceful coexistence are evidence of people-oriented governance,” he said.
Special prayers were offered for Governor Makinde, the state, past leaders, and for the continuity of good governance through a competent successor. Among the dignitaries present were the Governor’s wife, Tamunominini Makinde; Osun State First Lady, Titilola Adeleke; former Oyo First Lady, Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi; and other top government functionaries.
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