By Oyo Amebo
(“Abass Oloko, don’t remove my billboard at Isale Alfa, by January 2026, I will tell you whose billboard to place at the junction” – Makinde speaking at the 2025 Omituntun Ramadan Lecture.)
In the heart of Oyo State, the political landscape is as dynamic as the rolling hills and bustling markets that define its character. At the center of this evolving narrative stands Governor Seyi Makinde, a figure whose rise to power has been marked by his outspoken stance against political patronage. “I don’t have a godfather!” he declared emphatically during his re-electioneering campaign, a phrase that has since echoed throughout the state, stirring both admiration and skepticism.
Makinde’s rise to power is nothing short of a modern-day political fairy tale. A successful businessman turned governor, he emerged from the shadows of Nigeria’s political giants, promising to tear down the walls of political patronage that have long imprisoned the aspirations of the people.
His victory in 2023, was not just a win; it was a revolution, a signal that the tides were turning in favour of the electorate over entrenched interests.
But with great power comes great scrutiny. Political analysts are closely watching Makinde’s every move, pondering whether his commitment to independence will withstand the allure of political influence.
“In the world of Nigerian politics, power often transforms those who seek it,” mused Dr. Adebayo Olaniyi, a political scientist.
“The question is whether Makinde can resist that gravitational pull or if he’ll find himself ensnared in the very web he criticised.”
Adding to the intrigue are whispers of potential alliances and rivalries brewing beneath the surface. As Makinde pushes forward with ambitious projects, transforming dilapidated roads into modern highways and revitalising schools, critics argue that these initiatives may also serve a dual purpose: to solidify his political base.
“He must tread carefully. Development is essential, but so is maintaining democratic integrity,” warned political commentator Folake Ige.
Meanwhile, supporters rally behind him, viewing Makinde as a trailblazer. “He represents a new dawn for Oyo State, a leader who prioritises the people over political games,” declared Olumide, a passionate youth leader in the state.
They see in him a symbol of hope, a leader who could potentially reshape the political landscape for generations to come.
As the 2027 elections draw near, the stakes have never been higher. Will Makinde continue to champion the ideals of transparency and accountability, or will he succumb to the seductive siren call of power, becoming the very godfather he once denounced? Will he allow other party chieftains to decide who be PDP gubernatorial candidate? Will he not influenced and monetized the gubernatorial primary to favour his preferred candidate?
In September 2024, a furious Makinde declared, “I’m in charge of Oyo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I must have a say on who gets the party ticket “. Is the Governor not becoming a godfather? Though he claims he doesn’t have a godfather but God The Father. If there is an alliance between Mr President and Mr Governor in the build up to 2027 general elections, he will become a godfather from August 2025 by controlling both PDP and Oyo APC.
The unfolding drama is one that Oyo State watches with bated breath, captivated by the possibility of transformation, and the risks of betrayal.
With the stage set and the spotlight shining bright, the next chapter in Makinde’s political saga promises to be a riveting tale of ambition, integrity, and the relentless quest for change.
In a world where political godfathers have long reigned, can one man truly redefine the narrative? Only time will reveal the answer, and Oyo State is ready to witness history in the making.
Oyo Amebo writes from Ibadan.