‘My only godfather is God’ — Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that he owes his rise to the governorship and the achievements of his administration solely to God, insisting he has no political godfather.

Makinde made the remarks on Sunday during a Thanksgiving Service at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, marking Oyo State’s 50th anniversary.

Reflecting on his eight-year journey to the governorship, which culminated in his 2019 election, the governor emphasized that his political success was divinely guided.

“I am not ashamed to say that I don’t have a godfather; I only have God the Father. Seeking support does not make someone your godfather,” Makinde stated.

He described his tenure as the state’s eighth civilian governor as a “new beginning” for Oyo.

The golden jubilee celebrations, which began on January 26 at the University of Ibadan, feature religious services, cultural exhibitions, awards, dinner nights, and a public lecture titled “Consolidating the Legacy, Navigating the Present and Reimagining the Future.”

Makinde also hinted at a succession plan, assuring residents that his administration has built a foundation to ensure continuity of governance after his tenure.

“We have a team that is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde who will leave; the team will continue to work for the people of the state in accordance with God’s will,” he said.

In a goodwill message, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, praised Makinde’s leadership, calling it a model of good governance.

“Oyo State has changed remarkably under his leadership. Nigeria is not a poor country, only poorly governed,” Obi said.

The Archbishop of Ibadan Province, The Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, also lauded the contributions of past and current administrations, highlighting infrastructure development, improved welfare for workers, and peaceful coexistence as evidence of people-centered governance.

Special prayers were offered for Governor Makinde, past leaders, and the continuity of good governance through a capable successor.

Dignitaries at the service included Governor Makinde’s wife, Tamunominini Makinde; Osun State First Lady, Titilola Adeleke; former Oyo First Lady, Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; and other top officials.