Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has pledged to ensure a seamless transition of power at the end of his administration.
This was as he declared that he would not become a political godfather who interferes in the affairs of his successor.
Makinde made the declaration while hosting members of the Muslim community at a Hijrah 1448 luncheon held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
The governor’s comments come ahead of the 2027 political transition in Oyo State, as political parties and aspirants intensify preparations for the elections.
The governor said that after completing his eight-year tenure in office, his priority would be to ensure that the next administration has the freedom to govern effectively and formulate policies capable of responding to the aspirations and yearnings of the people.
He stressed that leadership should be about service to humanity rather than the exercise of personal control, adding that he would not seek to dictate how his successor should govern Oyo State.
Makinde urged residents, particularly members of the Muslim community, to carefully scrutinise political aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that voters should assess candidates based on competence, character, integrity and commitment to public service.
He cautioned against allowing ethnic, religious or other primordial considerations to determine political choices, noting that the overriding consideration should be the ability of candidates to deliver good governance and improve the living conditions of the people.
According to him, political office should be regarded as a platform for service and not an avenue for pursuing personal interests or perpetuating political control.
The governor further assured residents that the remaining period of his administration would be devoted to consolidating the achievements recorded over the past years while delivering additional projects and programmes with direct socioeconomic benefits to the people.
He said his administration would continue to take decisions that would promote development, peace, stability and prosperity across Oyo State until the expiration of his tenure.
Makinde also expressed appreciation to the people of the state for the confidence and support they had extended to his administration over the past eight years.
He particularly commended the Muslim community for its partnership with the government and its contributions to the peace, unity and development of the state.
The governor assured the community that his administration would remain committed to inclusive and equitable governance, irrespective of religious, ethnic or political affiliation.
He maintained that the ultimate measure of any administration should be its impact on the lives of the people, stressing that those entrusted with public office must always place the collective interest above personal and political considerations.