2027: I won’t be godfather to Adekanmbi if he succeeds me — Makinde

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said that he won’t interfere in state’s governance if the Allied People’s Movement (APM) governorship candidate,  Bimbo Adekanmbi, wins the 2027 election.

Makinde said this on Monday in Ibadan while hosting members of the Muslim community during a Hijrah 1448 luncheon at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.

He assured that his priority after eight years as governor “is to ensure a seamless transition that allows the next administration to govern freely and implement policies that reflect the will of the people.

“Leadership is about service, not control so I will not stand in the way of my successor.

“My job is to hand over and let the people’s mandate work,” the governor said.

Makinde urged citizens, especially the Muslim community, to judge  political aspirants based on competence, character, and commitment to public service rather than ethnicity, religion, or other sectional interests.

According to him, governance must remain focused on improving lives.

“Public office holders must put the interest of the people above personal or political interests,” he maintained.

Responding to criticism from some of his political opponents, Makinde, warned them to focus on real issues rather than making him the centre of their campaigns.

He further pledged that the remaining period of his administration would be dedicated to completing ongoing projects and delivering more people-oriented programmes across the state.

Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promote development, peace, and prosperity in the state until the last day of his tenure.

He equally appreciated the Muslim community for its support in ensuring peace and stability in the state.

According to him, his government will continue to uphold inclusiveness and fairness.

The  News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Hijrah 1448 luncheon brought together Muslim leaders, clerics, and government officials to mark the Islamic New Year and pray for the progress of the state and nation