Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has spoken out on rumors making the round of a potential 2027 presidential bid against President Bola Tinubu.
He quashed the reports while addressing reporters at Fashola Farm in Oyo State on Saturday, and emphasized his independence in shaping his political path.
“We didn’t do this because somebody has presidential ambition. No comment, nothing. But all I can say to you is, I’m old enough. If I want to do something, I will come out and say, ‘This is what I want to do.’ So, no speculation; nobody can push my agenda. I will push my agenda when the time comes,” Makinde declared.
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Makinde attributed his gubernatorial success to the people’s will, not political godfathers or major sponsors. “Oyo State people took a decision in 2019. We did not have a godfather. Nobody sponsored me, nobody gave me a dime for us to get in here, but the people of Oyo State decided we wanted to give this opportunity to an outsider.”
Reflecting on his political journey, Makinde said, “Before that, you will see videos saying, ‘Oh, Seyi, what has he done before? Has he been a councillor? No. Has he been to the House of Representatives? No. What about the Senate? I tried twice but was rejected.’ So, experience in politics – no experience in governance, but I’ve done well for myself in business, and they said we’ll give you the opportunity.”
Makinde highlighted overcoming adversity, citing his “Road Map to Accelerated Development of Oyo State, 2019-2023” blueprint. “We produced this document, and I said to the people, ‘This is it in black and white; hold me accountable,’ and they gave us the opportunity. Thank God it is being done.”
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