Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has publicly acknowledged Chief Olabode George as a pivotal figure in his political ascendancy, stating he might not have become governor without the elder statesman's support. The emotional revelation came during Chief George's 80th birthday celebration in Lagos, where political heavyweights gathered to honor the Atona Oodua of Yorubaland.
The Critical Intervention That Changed Everything
Governor Makinde recounted a dramatic episode from 2014 when he first declared his ambition to govern Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform. The administration had planned a major public declaration at the Polo Ground in Ibadan, securing necessary approvals and sending out invitations.
However, internal party opposition nearly derailed the event before it began. "Some of the people within the party, who thought Seyi must really be joking, tried to frustrate our plan," Makinde revealed. Opponents pressured military authorities to withdraw the approval for using the facility, leaving the governor's campaign in jeopardy just days before the scheduled declaration.
Bode George's Decisive Action
Facing potential political embarrassment, Makinde turned to Chief Bode George for help. "I ran to Baba. I said, 'Baba, this is the PDP fighting against PDP, why won't they want me to do my public declaration?'" the governor recalled.
Chief George immediately intervened, contacting relevant authorities to resolve the conflict. On the eve of the declaration, approval was miraculously restored, allowing the event to proceed as planned. This successful declaration marked the beginning of Makinde's journey to the Oyo State Government House.
Celebrating a Political Mentor
The birthday celebration attracted Nigeria's political and traditional elite, including Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. Makinde used the occasion to express profound gratitude to his political mentor.
"Today, I am standing in front of you as the Governor of Oyo State. So, let me publicly say thank you, Baba, for being part of my political journey," Makinde stated emotionally.
The governor also praised Chief George's military background and resilience, noting that his experience as a General prepared him for political battles. "If you go through that crucible, up to becoming a General in the military, you can never be a pushover," Makinde emphasized.
Reflecting on the broader lessons from Chief George's life, Governor Makinde encouraged attendees to draw inspiration from his journey through numerous challenges. "God did not promise that we are going to have a smooth journey; what He promised us, which I can see from Baba's life, is safe arrival to our destination," he concluded.
