Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State, announced that he will reveal his preferred successor in January 2026.
Gatekeepers News reports that this statement was made during the 11th Omituntun Ramadan lecture held at the government house arcade in Ibadan, the state capital.
The lecture, titled ‘Benefits of Being a Good Neighbour: An Islamic Perspective,’ was delivered by Yunus Olushina Teliat, the grand chief Imam of Ogbomoland. The event attracted various religious and political leaders, including Rashidi Ladoja, a former governor of the state.
In his address, largely presented in Yoruba, Makinde expressed gratitude to Muslim leaders in Oyo for their support of his administration and encouraged them to continue praying for his leadership.
He emphasized that he is not a “lame duck” leader and acknowledged that some individuals may be considering alternative ventures as his term approaches its conclusion.
Additionally, he jokingly addressed a popular socialite, Abbas Oloko, indicating that a billboard featuring his image in the Isale Alfa area should remain in place until he announces his successor in January 2026.
“I’m not yet a lame duck. Please leave my billboard at Isale Alfa,” the governor said.
“In January 2026, we know that political activities will start. I will tell you the picture of the person that will be installed there.”
Governor Makinde also urged Muslim faithful to use the Ramadan season as a time for reflection on the importance of peaceful coexistence in society, regardless of religious differences.
