Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has firmly stated that he is mature and capable of making his own political decisions without external influence.
This remark comes in response to recent rumours suggesting that he might challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Makinde dismissed these speculations as unfounded and unnecessary, insisting that his political future will be a matter he addresses directly when the time is right.
Speaking at an event held at Fashola Farm in Oyo, he emphasized his independence and ability to advocate for his own political agenda.
“We didn’t do this (Host PDP reporters’ retreat) because somebody has a presidential ambition. No comment, nothing. But all I can say to you is, I’m old enough if I want to do something, I will come out and say, this is what I want to do.
“So, no speculation, nobody can push my agenda. I will push my agenda when the time comes,” Makinde said, countering the swirling speculations about his ambitions.
The governor recalled his political journey, marked by challenges and eventual success, emphasizing that his election as governor of Oyo State was solely the will of the people.
He noted that, despite facing setbacks, including two unsuccessful Senate bids, the people of Oyo State chose him without the backing of any political godfathers or major sponsors.
The Governor said, “Oyo State people took a decision in 2019. We did not have a godfather. Nobody sponsored me, nobody gave me a dime for us to get in here but the people of Oyo State decided, we wanted to give this opportunity to an outsider.
“And before that, you will see videos saying that Oh, Seyi, what has he done before? Has he been a councillor? No. Has he been to the House of Representatives? No. What about the Senate? I tried twice but was rejected.
“So, experience in politics – No experience in governance but I’ve done well for myself in business and they said we’ll give you the opportunity and before that time, the whole of the South West was APC, all six states.
“But in Oyo State, we chose to be different. Because I had no experience, I wanted to convince the people.
“We produced a document, Road Map to accelerated development of Oyo State, 2019-2023 and I said to the people, this is it in black and white, hold me accountable and they gave us the opportunity. Thank God it is being done.”
The governor also voiced concerns over the potential danger of Nigeria evolving into a one-party state.
He stressed that a multi-party system is vital for providing diverse leadership opportunities and for allowing individuals from different backgrounds to showcase their abilities.
“Nigeria must not slide into a one-party state so that others will have the opportunity to showcase their talents,” Makinde said, reaffirming his commitment to fostering a competitive political environment.
