Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged residents to carefully scrutinise political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning them against entrusting the state’s future to politicians without clear, realistic and people-oriented programmes.
Makinde made the call on Sunday while speaking with journalists shortly after a wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service held in honour of his late mother, Chief (Mrs) Abigail Omojolagbe Makinde, at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, Ibadan.
The memorial service was part of the governor’s annual remembrance of his late mother, alongside an appeal to residents to make informed decisions about the state’s political future.
The governor, who was commemorating the sixth anniversary of his mother’s death on October 15, 2020, urged the electorate to critically examine the manifestos and campaign promises of political parties and their candidates before making their choices at the polls.
He stressed the importance of discerning leadership selection as the state prepares for another election cycle, encouraging residents to prioritise candidates with practical plans for development rather than being swayed by promises lacking clear implementation strategies.
The governor’s message comes as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties and their candidates position themselves to secure the support of the electorate.
Reflecting on his late mother’s life, Makinde described the annual remembrance as an opportunity to revisit her values, teachings and the close relationship they shared.
He recalled her motherly affection and the strong bond between them, noting that, like every close relationship, they occasionally had disagreements but always found ways to reconcile.
In his sermon, the Provost of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Very Rev. Samuel Olawoyin, drew his message from Deuteronomy 5:16, which emphasises the biblical injunction to honour one’s father and mother.
Olawoyin commended Makinde for consistently honouring the memories of his parents despite the demands of public office, urging members of the congregation to emulate the governor’s commitment to parental honour.
The cleric also praised the governor’s administration for developmental projects across the state’s geopolitical zones and its attention to the welfare of workers and pensioners.
He encouraged Makinde to remain focused on his responsibilities, sustain his development efforts and maintain his faith in God amid commendations and criticisms.
Special prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of the governor’s late parents, as well as for Makinde, his siblings, his family and the continued peace and progress of Oyo State.
Among the dignitaries who accompanied the governor were the Commissioner for Lands, Hon. Akin Funmilayo Williams; Commissioner for Energy, Prof. Dahud Shangodoyin; and the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi.
Others included the Chairman of the Christian Wing of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Bishop David Moradeyo; the Government House Chaplain, Pastor Layi Adisa; family members and other government officials.