The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has reflected on his long political journey to the state’s top office, revealing that his emergence as governor after eight years of persistent contests was driven solely by faith and divine purpose. Speaking during a Thanksgiving Service held to mark Oyo State’s 50th anniversary, the governor attributed both his rise to power and his style of governance to God, stressing that he owes allegiance to no political godfather.

The Thanksgiving Service took place at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, and formed part of a week-long programme organised to commemorate the golden jubilee of Oyo State. The anniversary celebration officially began on January 26 with an inauguration ceremony at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, drawing government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens from across the state.

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According to reports, the anniversary programme features a mix of religious services, cultural exhibitions, award presentations, dinner nights, and a public lecture themed “Consolidating the Legacy, Navigating the Present and Reimagining the Future.” The events are designed to reflect on the state’s journey since its creation while charting a sustainable path for the future.

Governor Makinde Says Leadership Marks a New Beginning for Oyo

Addressing the congregation, Governor Makinde described his emergence as governor in 2019 as symbolic, noting that he was the eighth civilian governor of Oyo State. Drawing from biblical references, he said the number eight signifies a new beginning, which he believes mirrors the transformation his administration has brought to the state.

“I want to congratulate all of us for witnessing Oyo State at 50, and I pray that we shall witness many more years on earth,” Makinde said. “When I became governor in 2019, I was the eighth civilian governor, and in the Bible, eight signifies a new beginning. So, the journey has been a new beginning for Oyo State. I didn’t plan it.”

The governor also used the occasion to firmly dismiss claims that he rose to power through the backing of a political godfather. He maintained that while he sought support like every other politician, that did not translate into political control or obligation.

“I am not ashamed to say that I don’t have a godfather; I only have God the Father,” Makinde declared. “Some people are upset because I came to them to seek support to be elected. Yes, you go to seek support. Does that make the person your godfather?”

Makinde emphasized that his administration has focused on laying strong foundations that will secure Oyo State’s long-term development beyond his tenure. He expressed confidence in the team he has built, noting that governance in the state is institutional rather than dependent on one individual.

In what appeared to be a subtle reference to succession planning, the governor said leadership is divinely timed and that continuity is key to sustaining progress. “God has brought a particular governor at a particular time to signify a new beginning for the state,” he said. “My charge to you as we celebrate 50 years is that we should not go back to where we were coming from. Let us stay focused.”

He added that while he will eventually leave office, the structures and people driving governance will remain. “It is only Seyi Makinde who will go out; the members of the team are still there to continue working for the people of Oyo State,” he stated.

Governor Makinde concluded by reaffirming his commitment to lead in accordance with divine guidance, saying his administration will continue to operate “in line with the will and dictates of God” for the benefit of the state and its people.