Oyo governor Makinde hints at becoming political godfather, says ‘I have a say on who succeeds me in 2027’
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has hinted at becoming a political godfather as he asserted that he will play a crucial role in determining his successor when his term concludes in 2027.
Speaking on Thursday while receiving the report from the Committee on Review and Update of Public Service Rules and Other Regulations in the State Civil/Public Service, held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, Makinde addressed those currently lobbying for his position.
While he emphasised his influence in the selection process, he acknowledged that the ultimate decision rests with the electorate.
“I may not have the final say in who takes over, but I will definitely have my input,” he said.
Makinde urged those eager to succeed him to exercise patience, reminding them that the time for such considerations will come closer to the election date.
He highlighted the importance of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in this process, noting that party dynamics will play a crucial role in shaping the final decision.
“As the current leader of the party in Oyo State, I will be involved in discussions and deliberations that will guide our choice,” he added.
Speaking on the the Committee report on Review and Update of Public Service Rules and Other Regulations in the State Civil/Public Service presented to him, the governor expressed his commitment to leaving a transformative legacy for the state’s civil service by transitioning from manual processes to digital systems to eliminate unnecessary delays within the workforce.
According to him, many of the Public Service Rules are obsolete, hence the need to review the rules to world standard practice that would transform the State Civil and Public Service.
Makinde, while commending the committee, revealed that their efforts did not only validate his position of leaving a desirable legacy in the state but would improve and better the condition of service for the state workers.
He, therefore, assured the committee that he would constitute a technical committee that would work on the implementation and operationalization of their recommendations.
Earlier while submitting the reports and recommendations, Chairman of the Committee, a former Head of service and Chairman in the state, Chief Adebisi Adesola, said if the recommendations are adopted and implemented it will result in greater output and better delivery in line with global best practices.
“If implemented, these changes will result in greater output and better service delivery in line with global best practices.”
Adesola further remarked, “This transformation is not just a procedural update; it represents a fundamental shift in how we view public service.”
“By embracing modern practices, we can foster a culture of accountability and efficiency that will ultimately benefit all citizens of Oyo State.”