… Dismisses Presidential Ambition Pressure
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has downplayed growing speculations over a potential 2027 presidential bid, declaring that he remains fully focused on completing his current mandate and delivering good governance to the people of the state.
Makinde, who featured on Channels Television’s political programme, Politics Today, on Tuesday, stated unequivocally that he would not allow political distractions or external agendas to dictate his path. According to him, his priority is to fulfil the developmental blueprint entrusted to him by the electorate.
“People may speculate, but I will not be drawn into that conversation. If my political journey ends with being governor of Oyo State, I will consider it a privilege. I’m focused on institutional reforms that outlive my tenure,” the governor said.
The governor highlighted major strides under his administration, particularly in road infrastructure and agribusiness. He noted that recent international engagements, including a trip to France to finalise a deal with Rungis International for the establishment of a Food Wholesale Market in Ijaiye, are already yielding benefits.
Makinde said his administration’s investment in rural-urban connectivity is designed to stimulate agriculture, reduce migration pressures, and open up new markets.
“We connected Ibadan to Oke Ogun, Oyo to Oke Ogun, and Ogbomoso to Oke Ogun. These are the consumption and production hubs. Infrastructure is our key to attracting investments and driving agribusiness,” he stated.
He referenced remarks by the President of Sierra Leone, who had lauded the state’s Fashola Agribusiness Hub during a recent visit, noting that China’s development model—based on infrastructure—served as inspiration.
On the question of who will succeed him in 2027, Makinde said he is confident in the caliber of leaders within his administration and assured citizens that the state will not be left in uncertainty.
“We have good people on our team. Before I leave office, I will unveil a Roadmap for Continued Development of Oyo State, to build on what we have achieved under our 2019–2023 and 2023–2027 frameworks,” he said.
Makinde emphasized that his lasting legacy would be the institutions and systems established to ensure sustainable governance, not merely the physical projects completed under his watch.
Addressing developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the prospect of political coalitions ahead of the 2027 elections, Makinde warned against premature negotiations that exclude critical stakeholders.
He noted that coalition efforts must be strategically aligned with party interests and the broader national agenda, cautioning against moves driven solely by power considerations.
“You cannot speak of a coalition without clarity on objectives. It must not be about personal ambitions. It must be about what benefits Nigerians and strengthens the party,” he warned.
Speaking on zoning in the context of the 2027 Oyo governorship election, the governor stated that the discussion remains relevant but must also be guided by performance and public trust.
“Zoning is valid, but politics is also a numbers game. When someone from outside Ibadan shows capacity, earns trust, and delivers results, the people will naturally support a shift,” Makinde asserted.
