Zaccheus Adedeji, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has firmly stated that he will not be contesting for the governorship seat of Oyo State in the 2027 elections.
Adedeji, a former Commissioner for Finance in the state, who has been speculated as a potential successor to Governor Seyi Makinde, emphasized that his primary focus is on his current responsibilities.
Adedeji made the announcement during a New Year service at his church in Iwo Ate, located in the Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. The decision, he said, was necessary to allow him to concentrate fully on his duties at the FIRS, a role he has held since his appointment by President Bola Tinubu in September 2023.
“I want to use this to respond to a lot of requests. I, Zaccheus Adedeji, will not contest for the governorship election in 2027. I know a lot of people would not be happy about this, but everybody knows the responsibility and grace that God has given to us,” Adedeji said, addressing his supporters.
He went on to reflect on his previous tenure as Oyo State’s Commissioner for Finance during the late Abiola Ajimobi’s administration, noting that he had fulfilled his duties to the state during that time.
The FIRS chairman also acknowledged the possibility that his decision might disappoint some of his admirers but reiterated his commitment to his present role.
“I was commissioner of finance 14 years ago. And by that time, with the grace of God, we’ve done all of what God wants us to do in the state. So the only thing I need from you is your prayers for strength to end well with what I’m doing now. So I would not want to be distracted,” he added.
Adedeji’s statement comes at a time when political discussions in Oyo State are intensifying as the 2027 elections approach. His decision to step aside from the gubernatorial race has quashed speculation that he might seek to succeed Governor Makinde, a position for which he had reportedly been considered a potential frontrunner.
Before his appointment to lead the FIRS, Adedeji served as the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the National Sugar Development Council.
His experience in public administration, particularly in finance, has garnered significant respect across the country, and his leadership at the FIRS is closely watched as part of the government’s broader fiscal policies.
As Adedeji continues his work at the FIRS, his focus will remain on improving Nigeria’s tax administration and ensuring the country’s fiscal health. In his words, “The task before me is immense, and I ask for your support and prayers as I work toward achieving success in this critical role.”
This development has stirred various reactions across the political landscape, with many acknowledging Adedeji’s decision to prioritize national responsibilities over personal ambition. However, it remains to be seen who will emerge as a prominent contender for the Oyo governorship seat in 2027, given the shifting dynamics within the state’s political scene.
