Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has asserted that he is mature and able to make his own political decisions without outside influence.
His remarks come in the wake of recent rumors suggesting he may challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Makinde dismissed such speculation as baseless and unnecessary, insisting that his political future was a matter he would directly address when the time was right.
Speaking at an event held at Fashola Farm in Oyo, he emphasized his independence and ability to advocate for his political agenda.
“We did not do this (hosted by PDP press corps) because someone has presidential ambitions. No comments, nothing. But what I can tell you is that I have had enough. At that age, all I know is that if I wanted to do something, I would go out and say this is what I want to do.
“So, no speculation, no one can push my agenda. When the time comes, I will push my agenda,” Makinde said, refuting speculation swirling about his ambitions.
The governor reflected on his political journey marked by hardships and eventual successes, stressing that his election as governor of Oyo State was solely due to the will of the people.
He noted that despite facing setbacks such as two failed senatorial bids, the people of Oyo State elected him without the support of political godfathers or major sponsors.
The governor said, “The people of Oyo State took a decision in 2019. We had no godfather. No one sponsored me, no one gave me a dime to come in here, but Oyo State The people decided they wanted to give this opportunity to an outsider.
“And before that, you see a video saying, oh, say, what has he ever done? Has he ever been a congressman? No. Has he ever been to the House of Representatives? No. What about the Senate? I tried it twice and it was rejected.
“So, they said they would give me a chance because I had experience in politics but not in governance but I had done well in business.Until then, the entire South-West, all six states were in APC. did.
“But at Oyo State, we chose something different. I wanted to convince people because I had no experience.
“We have prepared a document called Roadmap for Accelerating Development in Oyo State from 2019 to 2023 and I want people to make this clear in black and white and hold me accountable. And they gave us the opportunity.”Thank God, it’s being done.” ”
The governor also expressed concern about the potential danger of Nigeria evolving into a one-party state.
He stressed that a multiparty system is essential to provide diverse leadership opportunities and enable individuals from different backgrounds to reach their potential.
“Nigeria must not descend into a one-party state to give other countries a chance to showcase their talents,” Makinde said, reaffirming his determination to foster a competitive political environment.
