Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that he will disclose his preferred successor in January 2026. He made this announcement on Tuesday, while speaking at the 11th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture, held at the government house arcade in Ibadan, the state capital.
The event featured a lecture titled “Benefits of Being a Good Neighbour: An Islamic Perspective,” delivered by Yunus Teliat, the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomoland. The gathering was attended by prominent religious and political figures, including former Oyo State Governor, Rashidi Ladoja.
During his address, Makinde expressed gratitude to Muslim leaders for their continuous support of his administration. Speaking in Yoruba, he urged them to keep praying for the government as it continues to serve the people of Oyo State.
Adding a touch of humor to his speech, Makinde playfully addressed Abbas Oloko, a well-known socialite, requesting that he not remove his billboard at Isale Alfa.
“I am still in office and not a lame-duck governor yet. Please leave my billboard at Isale Alfa,”he said.
Makinde also acknowledged the approaching political season, noting that by January 2026, election activities would be in full swing. He assured the people that by then, he would reveal the person he believes should succeed him as governor.
“In January 2026, political activities will begin. At that time, I will present the person who will take over from me,” Makinde stated.
Makinde has been serving as the governor of Oyo State since 2019 and was re-elected for a second term, which will conclude in 2027. His announcement signals the beginning of political maneuvering ahead of the next gubernatorial election in the state.
