Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced that he will disclose the name of his preferred successor in January 2026. The governor made this known on Monday while speaking at the 11th Omituntun Ramadan lecture held at the government house arcade in Ibadan.
The event, themed “Benefits of Being a Good Neighbour: An Islamic Perspective,” featured a lecture by the grand chief Imam of Ogbomoland, Yunus Teliat. During his address, Makinde, who spoke in Yoruba, thanked Muslim leaders for their continued support and urged them to keep praying for the success of his administration.
In a lighthearted moment, the governor turned to socialite Abbas Oloko, advising him not to remove his billboard at Isale Alfa. He hinted that the image of his chosen successor would be placed there in early 2026.
“In January 2026, we know that political activities will start. I will tell you the picture of the person that will be installed there,” Makinde said.
The governor also urged Muslims to use the Ramadan period to foster peace and unity, regardless of religious or political differences.
Makinde, who was re-elected in 2023 and will complete his second term in 2027, has previously spoken about his influence on the next governorship election.
Back in October 2024, while receiving a report on public service reforms, he had noted that he would play a role in determining the next governor, particularly within the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“So those people that are campaigning to be the next governor still have to wait because I still have till May 29, 2027. And I’ll also have a say in who is going to become the next governor,” Makinde stated.
“I may not have my way, it’s Oyo State people that will decide, but I’ll have a say, especially those in PDP will have me to contend with because I’m still the one controlling the structure,” he added.
