The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has reflected on his journey on becoming governor after eight years of contesting for the office.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service marking Oyo State’s 50th anniversary at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo in Ibadan, the governor attributed his rise to office and his governance solely to God.
He boasted that he has no political godfather, adding that his administration has laid strong foundations for the state’s future.
The Thanksgiving service formed part of a week-long programme commemorating the state’s 50th anniversary, which began with its official inauguration at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on January 26.
Events include religious services, cultural exhibitions, awards and dinner nights, and a public lecture titled, “Consolidating The Legacy, Navigating The Present And Reimagining The Future.”
Speaking during the event, Makinde said, “I want to congratulate all of us for witnessing Oyo State at 50, and I pray that we shall witness many more years on earth. When I became the governor of this state in 2019, I was the eighth civilian or executive governor of the state, and the significance of eight in the Bible depicts a new beginning. So, the journey has been a new beginning for Oyo. I didn’t plan it.
“I tell people that I am not ashamed to say that I don’t have a godfather, I only have God the Father. Some of the people are upset, they said I came to them to ask for support to be elected. Yes, you go somewhere to seek support. Does that make the person your godfather?”
Makinde said having been helped by God, he would continue to operate according to the will of God.
He also hinted at a succession plan, saying, “God has brought a particular governor at a particular time to signify a new beginning for the state. My charge to you as we celebrate this 50th anniversary is that we should not go back to where we were coming from. Let us stay focused.
“We have a team that is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde who will go out; members of the team are there to continue to work for the people of the state. We will continue to operate in accordance with the will and the dictates of God for Oyo State.”
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