Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said that so-called “federal might” will not determine the outcome of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that Nigerians will freely choose their leaders at the polls.
Makinde made the remarks on Wednesday at the Oyo State Tourism Summit held at the University of Ibadan International Conference Centre (ICC), where he stated that the electorate is becoming more politically aware and less influenced by power structures.
“I believe that this election cycle, federal might will not work. It has worked in Ekiti state in both instances but this time around, Nigerians will show politicians pepper,” he said.
“They will show us that they don’t want to be bystanders anymore; they will participate, and I’m sure of what I’m saying.”
The governor also spoke on governance and succession planning in Oyo State, noting that his administration has built systems intended to ensure continuity beyond his tenure.
He said while he may recommend a successor, the final decision rests with the people of the state.
“I tell people that I will recommend for Oyo state people, but the decision will rest with the people of Oyo state,” Makinde said.
“But if you make a mistake and bring someone who will not do good work, it is a one-day event, but the impact will last four years. So, we must get it right. Leadership changes but systems, they endure.”
Makinde stressed that his focus has been on building durable governance structures rather than personalities, adding that the goal is long-term stability and development.
Amid speculation over possible successors, including links to former Commissioner for Finance Bimbo Adekanbi, the governor said competence and loyalty to Oyo State remain his key considerations.
“People said ‘oh, so Seyi, you did not mentor anyone these seven years you have been in government that can take over from you without the taint of APC?’ And I ask them that Morohunkola Thomas or Bimbo Adekanbi, are they not from Oyo state? For us, if you’re from Oyo state, loyal to Oyo state, and have capacity, we will support you,” he said.
“We are blind to party coloration but open to capacity that can move Oyo state forward.”
Makinde also dismissed concerns over partisan divisions, stressing that his administration remains focused on governance and continuity rather than political alignment.
He added that his priority is to build sustainable systems that future governments can strengthen rather than dismantle, in order to ensure long-term growth and stability in the state.
