Igbo Communities in Oyo State Back Gov. Makinde’s Leadership; Pledge Support for His Successor, Warn Against Agents of Discord
Leaders and stakeholders of various Igbo communities in Oyo State on Saturday held a press conference in Ibadan where they commended Governor Seyi Makinde for what they described as transformational leadership, inclusive governance, and remarkable infrastructural development across the state.
The press briefing was held at the Solid Minerals Development Agency, located behind the Ministry of Trade and Investment, Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan.
Notable Igbo stakeholders at the press conference include John Idoko (Enugu State), Ogochukwu Ogbonna (Ebonyi State), Barrister Ndo Ofurunna from Imo (resident of Ibadan), Ukachi Clement from Imo (resident of Oyo Town), Valentine Chukwu (Anambra), and Kingly Ike (Abia).
The event was facilitated by Hon. Rita Orji, former member of the House of Representatives who represented Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency of Lagos State and a known ally of Governor Makinde.
Addressing journalists, the Igbo leaders praised Governor Makinde for maintaining peace, strengthening security, expanding infrastructure, improving road networks, and creating an enabling environment for businesses and residents in Oyo State.
They noted that members of the Igbo communities across Ibadan, Oyo Town, Ogbomoso, Iseyin, and other parts of the state have continued to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere for trade and investments under the Makinde administration.
According to the stakeholders, Governor Makinde has demonstrated fairness, competence, and political maturity in the management of the state, adding that his achievements have endeared him to many non-indigenes residing in Oyo State.
The group pledged their continued loyalty and political support to Governor Makinde and declared that they would also support whoever he nominates as his successor in the 2027 governorship race.
“We stand solidly with Governor Seyi Makinde because of his outstanding performance and commitment to the development of Oyo State,” one of the speakers said.
“As communities that live and do business here, we appreciate his leadership and we are ready to support whoever he endorses to continue his good works.”
They added that continuity of purposeful governance remains important for the growth and stability of the state.
On recent comments linked to former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, the stakeholders said political actors from outside Oyo State should avoid statements capable of distracting the government or creating unnecessary tension in the state.
“We advise Fayose and others to respect the political atmosphere in Oyo State and allow Governor Makinde to continue the good work he is doing for the people,” the group stated.
They maintained that Oyo State has remained peaceful and progressive because the current administration is focused on governance rather than political drama, adding that residents would reject any attempt to import needless controversies into the state.
“Those seeking relevance through unnecessary comments should know that Oyo people are wiser and more interested in development than political noise,” another speaker added.
The stakeholders further urged leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party to promote unity and avoid actions or utterances that could create divisions ahead of future elections.
They attested that the people of Oyo State remain united behind progress, peace, and responsible leadership, insisting that no external interference would derail the steady advancement being witnessed under Governor Makinde’s administration.
