Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has asked appointees in his administration with political aspiration to go public with their ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The governor gave this directive on Thursday, March 5, at the Oyo State Government-organised 2026 Iftar programme held at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
He assured such aspirants of his support once their loyalty and commitment are to the people of the state and its development.
This was as the governor directed the office seekers to use the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the political platform.
Governor Makinde noted that the directive became imperative following claims that he has not freed aspirants seeking offices, especially those in his government, despite the election timetable having been released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He said: “I have read on the social media that I have not given the go-ahead to political appointees who have ambitions to hold different political offices, including the governorship seat.
“So, henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position, bring out your billboards. And those of you who are bothered about the PDP crisis, add the party’s logo to the billboard, nothing will happen.”
The governor used the occasion to appreciate the Islamic faithful in the state for their prayers, support and cooperation with his administration, saying these have resulted into various developments, progress and growth for the state.
Earlier, while delivering his lecture, the guest lecturer at the Iftar programme, Sheik Fadilat Muideen Onihantu, commended Governor Makinde for his uncommon leadership virtues and dedication to the work of God, his family and the people of the state.
In his opening remarks, the chairman on the occasion, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola, thanked Governor Makinde for his consistency in organising the Iftar since the inception of his administration and for his continuous support to the Muslim community in the state.
He sought for more prayers for the state and the country at large.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, appreciated Governor Makinde and called on Muslims in the state to continue to support the government.
The event had in attendance a former governor of the state and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; former deputy governor, Engr Hamid Gbadamosi; Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Debo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; member representing Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency, Hon. Dhikirulahi Olajide; and member representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Hon. Shina Oyedeji.
Also in attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; President, Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Tajudeen Abdulganiyu; Chief of Staff, Otunba (Dr) Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon Kazeem Adeniyi; and the Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties; Chief Bayo Lawal.
The Co-Chairman, Oyo State Elders’ Council, Elder Wole Oyelese; Chairman, Pilgrims Welfare Board, (Muslim Wing), Sheik Hashim Atere; Oyo State PDP Deputy Chairman, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke; the Chairman of all Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State, Hon Sikiru Sanda; Prof. K.K Oloso; Chief Bayo Oyero; Muslim scholars, religious leaders, traditional rulers; League of Imams and Alfas; royal fathers, service commanders; Commissioners and Permanent Secretaries, were also among the dignitaries at the Iftar programme.
