Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged stakeholders and critics to exercise caution in the debate over his successor, warning that the choice of the next governor in 2027 rests ultimately with the people of the state. Makinde made this statement on Wednesday while addressing concerns surrounding discussions about the likely emergence of Abimbola Adekanmbi as a potential successor. He insisted that his administration remains guided strictly by competence and capacity rather than political affiliation.
Capacity Over Party Coloration
“We are blind to party coloration; we are open to capacity that can move Oyo State forward,” the governor declared, stressing that his position on succession is anchored on performance and not partisan loyalty. He maintained that although he may recommend a successor, the final decision rests with the electorate, warning that voters must be careful in making their choice.
“I will recommend a successor to the people of Oyo State, but the decision will rest with them. If they make a mistake by failing to vote for the right person, the impact will last for four years,” Makinde cautioned.
Political Context and Stakeholder Positioning
The governor’s remarks came amid growing political discussions ahead of the 2027 governorship election in the state, with stakeholders increasingly positioning themselves across party lines. Makinde also reaffirmed that competence, capacity, and developmental track record remain his guiding principles in evaluating leadership suitability.
Tourism Summit as Platform for Governance Discourse
The event, the 2026 Oyo State International Tourism Summit, was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan. It attracted top government officials and political figures, including Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun; representative of the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Ladiran Akintola; Deputy Governor Barr. Bayo Lawal; former Governor of Ekiti State Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Secretary to the State Government Prof. Musibau Babatunde; and Head of Service Mrs. Olubunmi Oni.
The summit provided a platform for discussions on cultural development, tourism expansion, and governance priorities, even as political conversations around the 2027 succession debate continue to intensify in the state.
