The last paragraph of Governor Seyi Makinde’s newsletter on 8th August l, 2024 read:
(“Before I go, I mentioned earlier that the results of the pickleball games we played made me smile.
“So, if you are wondering why… “We played three sets, and I moved to a new team for each set.
“My team won each time. This in itself is a lesson that I will leave you to figure out.”)
In a move that defies the typical political dynamics in Nigeria, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has taken a bold step that could radically reshape the future leadership of the state.
By appointing Mr. Bimbo Adekanmbi, a former Commissioner for Finance under the opposition APC government, to chair a crucial state committee, Ibadan Airport upgrade, Makinde has sparked speculation that he may be grooming Adekanmbi as his successor.
This unprecedented decision comes as a surprise, given the intense partisan rivalries that often characterize Nigerian politics.
However, Makinde has made it clear that his primary motivation is not political, but rather a commitment to assembling the best possible team to deliver on an important project for Oyo State.
According to the Governor, “Mr Adekanmbi served under APC. Maybe after this project he would join us but I don’t know. But I want to say that this is not politics. He is a finance expert,”
Makinde stated, emphasizing that Adekanmbi’s appointment is based solely on his proven financial acumen, rather than any political considerations.
This bold move by Makinde underscores his willingness to transcend the traditional boundaries of Nigerian politics and prioritize the greater good of the state.
By recognizing Adekanmbi’s expertise and setting aside partisan affiliations, the governor has demonstrated a level of political maturity that is often lacking in the country’s political landscape.
However, this decision does not augur well with PDP leaders and chieftains who felt there were capable individuals within the ruling party camp and by extension, his administration.
Makinde’s candid acknowledgment of the pervasive issues that plague governance in Nigeria for years such as nepotism, political affiliation and tribalism, further reinforces his determination to chart a different course.
This recognition of “brain over politics” has the potential to inspire confidence in the people of Oyo State, as they witness a leader who is willing to make the tough decisions necessary to drive positive change. There are other financial experts from Ibadan and other zones in Oyo State who contributed to the success of Oyo State International Business Summit held in the United Kingdom in May 2023.
The speculation surrounding Makinde’s potential grooming of Adekanmbi as his successor is further fueled by the governor’s comments. “Maybe after this project he would join us,” Makinde remarked, hinting at the possibility of Adekanmbi transitioning from the opposition party to Makinde’s political camp.
If this scenario were to unfold, it would represent a groundbreaking shift in the political dynamics of Oyo State.
By prioritizing competence over partisanship, Makinde would be setting a precedent that could ripple through the political landscape, encouraging a more collaborative and inclusive approach to governance on one hand, while revolt, agitations and realignments of political forces will be inevitable on the other hand.
As Oyo State embarks on this pivotal project, Ibadan Airport upgrade, the people will be closely watching to see if Makinde’s bold decision to bring in a former APC member ultimately paves the way for Adekanmbi to become his successor as political Juggernauts in Oyo State keep watching from close and far distances.
This unorthodox move could solidify Makinde’s legacy as a transformative leader who was willing to challenge the status quo and put the needs of the state above the constraints of traditional politics.
