Ibadan, Oyo State – Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has issued a strong warning to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, against attempting to install a successor. Shittu emphasized that the people of Oyo State desire a fresh perspective in governance.
In an interview with The PUNCH, Shittu, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, described the practice of anointing a successor as outdated and undemocratic, asserting it has no place in modern governance.
Shittu’s comments follow Governor Makinde’s recent statement during the 11th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture, where he indicated his intention to announce his preferred successor in January 2026. Makinde humorously addressed socialite Abbas Oloko, stating, “I’m not yet a lame duck… In January 2026, I will tell you the picture of the person that will be installed there.”
However, Shittu, who is also vying for the governorship in 2026, vowed to resist any imposition. “Just ignore Makinde. He is not God,” Shittu stated, expressing his faith that God determines who assumes power.
Furthermore, Shittu addressed the trend of successive Oyo governors originating from a specific region of the state, deeming it unfair and politically risky. He advocated for rotational leadership to ensure inclusivity and fairness, drawing parallels to the North’s concession of power at the national level for balance.
Shittu highlighted that out of the last seven governors in Oyo State, six have been from Ibadan, with only Akala from Ogbomoso serving due to the impeachment of an Ibadan governor. He argued that power rotation among the seven zones in Oyo State is necessary for unity.
He acknowledged that while Ibadan constitutes a significant portion of the population, it is also home to residents from various other tribes. Shittu stressed that power rotation would give other regions a sense of belonging and prevent marginalization.
Shittu cited the potential instability that could have arisen if Bola Tinubu had not been allowed to become president, noting that during Akala’s government, Ibadan residents were well-treated to avoid feelings of marginalization. He concluded by emphasizing his long-term connection to Ibadan, where he has lived for 45 years and has family ties, but reiterated the need for deliberate efforts to rotate leadership for political balance.
