Makinde Rejects Godfather Role, Urges 2027 Aspirants to Focus on Policies, Not Attacks

By Aliyu Oyewole
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has dismissed suggestions that he is positioning himself as a political godfather ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging aspirants to concentrate on issue-based campaigns rather than personal attacks.
Makinde made the remarks while addressing political stakeholders and party members, where he emphasized the need for maturity, discipline, and policy-driven engagement in Nigeria’s evolving democratic space.
The governor said his focus remains on governance and delivering democratic dividends to the people of Oyo State, rather than exerting undue influence over political aspirants or succession politics.
He cautioned politicians eyeing elective positions in 2027 to avoid divisive rhetoric, stressing that the electorate is more interested in practical solutions to economic and social challenges than political drama.
According to him, the future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the ability of political actors to prioritize development-oriented discussions over personal or factional attacks.
Makinde further called on aspirants across political parties to present clear policy alternatives that address pressing issues such as unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and economic growth.
He reiterated that leadership should be about service and impact, not intimidation or the imposition of political structures.
The governor maintained that he would continue to support democratic processes that encourage fairness, inclusivity, and healthy competition among aspirants.
As political activities gradually build toward the 2027 elections, Makinde’s comments add to ongoing debates about internal party dynamics and the role of influential political figures in shaping succession politics across the country.



