OYO 2027: Makinde Breaks Silence on Muslim Successor Agitation, Cites Senatorial Statistics to Calm Tensions

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has addressed the growing agitation regarding the religious affiliation of his successor, urging residents to prioritize competence and state progress over divisive sentiments. Speaking at the 2024 Hijrah 1446 celebration in Ibadan, the Governor acknowledged the intensifying discussions across the state suggesting that the next Governor of Oyo State should be of the Islamic faith.

In a move aimed at dousing religious tension, Governor Makinde provided a detailed historical breakdown of the state’s political representation, noting that the Christian community has remained supportive despite a long-standing trend of Muslim dominance in the Senate. The Governor pointed out that currently, all three Senators representing Oyo State in Abuja—Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Senator Yunus Akintunde, and Senator Fatai Buhari—are Muslims.

He further observed that this trend is not new, revealing that in the previous two dispensations, all six senatorial slots were also held by Muslims, including figures such as Kola Balogun, Teslim Folarin, Rilwan Soji Akanbi, and Monsurat Sunmonu. According to the Governor, the Christian community did not allow these statistics to create friction or “bother them” at the time, underscoring the need for continued religious harmony and mutual respect.

Governor Makinde emphasized that the selection of leaders is ultimately a divine prerogative, stating that “the heart of kings and rulers are in God’s hands”. He urged the people of Oyo State to focus their prayers on God’s guidance to ensure the emergence of a leader who will sustain and exceed the current developmental strides of his administration.

The Governor’s remarks come at a time of heightened political maneuvering, following reports of high-stakes meetings in Abuja involving APC stalwarts like Oloye Adebayo Adelabu and Senator Teslim Folarin as they jostle for the 2027 ticket. By shifting the focus to statistics and collective progress, Makinde appears to be steering the conversation away from sectarian interests toward a more unified political future for the state.