Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed his intention to play a key role in determining his successor when his tenure ends in 2027. He made this statement while receiving a report from the Committee on Review and Update of Public Service Rules and Other Regulations in the State Civil and Public Service on Thursday.
The governor’s declaration comes amid growing political interest in the 2027 elections. Several aspirants are already positioning themselves for the governorship seat, but Makinde has urged them to be patient, reminding them that the process is still far off.
Speaking at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, Makinde acknowledged the aspirations of many who are eager to take over from him. However, he emphasized that while he will have a say in the selection of his successor, the final decision ultimately rests with the people of Oyo State.
“I may not have the final say in who takes over, but I will definitely have my input,” the governor stated.
This statement suggests that although he won’t singlehandedly determine the next governor, Makinde’s endorsement will carry significant weight within his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and among the electorate.
Governor Makinde addressed those who are already lobbying for the governorship position, cautioning them to wait until the appropriate time for such discussions. He reminded them that the race for 2027 is still distant, and it is important to focus on governance rather than premature politicking.
“As the current leader of the party in Oyo State, I will be involved in discussions and deliberations that will guide our choice,” he said, referring to his role in shaping the PDP’s decision.
Makinde emphasized that the party’s internal dynamics will be crucial in deciding the next candidate. His remarks highlight the importance of party unity and strategy in securing victory in future elections.
The PDP has been the ruling party in Oyo State since Governor Makinde came into office in 2019. Under his leadership, the party has gained significant traction, with many supporters crediting him for the developmental strides in the state.
Makinde’s influence within the PDP is expected to be a decisive factor in the choice of the party’s candidate for the 2027 elections. However, the governor stressed that this decision will not be made solely by him but through consultations with key party stakeholders.
Party members, political analysts, and citizens alike will be watching closely as the 2027 elections approach to see how Makinde’s influence will shape the political landscape in Oyo State.
While Makinde’s remarks about his future role in the 2027 elections made headlines, he also used the occasion to discuss his administration’s achievements and ongoing efforts to transform the Oyo State Civil and Public Service. The governor received a report from a committee set up to review and update the Public Service Rules and other regulations governing the state’s workforce.
Makinde expressed his commitment to leaving behind a legacy of modernization in the state’s civil service. He revealed that the transition from manual processes to digital systems is already underway, a move aimed at improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary delays.
According to Makinde, many of the current Public Service Rules are outdated and need to be updated to reflect modern practices that are in line with global standards.
“The current Public Service Rules are obsolete, and there is an urgent need to review them to meet global best practices that will transform the Oyo State Civil and Public Service,” he stated.
Makinde commended the committee for their hard work, noting that their efforts validate his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Oyo State workers. He assured the committee that a technical team will be formed to work on implementing their recommendations.
The report presented to the governor by the committee was aimed at improving service delivery in Oyo State. If adopted, these changes could lead to significant improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of the state’s public service.
The Chairman of the Committee, Chief Adebisi Adesola, a former Head of Service in Oyo State, emphasized that the proposed reforms are not just minor updates but a fundamental transformation of the civil service.
“If implemented, these changes will result in greater output and better service delivery in line with global best practices,” Adesola stated.
He further highlighted the broader significance of the reforms, saying, “This transformation is not just a procedural update; it represents a fundamental shift in how we view public service.”
According to Adesola, adopting modern practices will foster a culture of accountability and efficiency within the public service, which will benefit all citizens of Oyo State. The committee’s recommendations focus on improving transparency, increasing efficiency, and reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks.
