Makinde Explains Why He Chose Bimbo Adekanmbi, Says Debo Akande, Dr. Nureni Adeniran, Others Are Capable But…

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has explained why he chose Bimbo Adekanmbi as his preferred successor, despite acknowledging that other associates, including Debo Akande and Dr Nureni Adeniran, were also capable of leading the state.

Makinde said his decision was informed by the need for a successor with the professional competence, temperament, youthful energy and resilience required to handle the challenges of governing Oyo State.

The governor made the remarks during an interview while responding to a question on why he settled for Adekanmbi despite having worked with several other associates for years.

Recalling the criticism he faced before becoming governor, Makinde said some people had questioned his suitability for public office because he had not previously occupied a political position.

“When I wanted to serve the people of Oyo State, many said I had not occupied any position before, and a lot of things were said. But see what happens today,” he said.

Makinde described Adekanmbi as a recognised professional accountant, expressing confidence in his credentials and ability to deliver on responsibilities assigned to him.

He also criticised individuals who, according to him, relied on professional titles without demonstrating corresponding achievements, arguing that competence and results should be important considerations in selecting leaders.

The governor disclosed that he had assigned Adekanmbi what he described as a difficult task involving the proposed upgrade of the Ibadan Airport.

According to Makinde, he informed Adekanmbi that approval had been obtained for the airport upgrade, with the project expected to be executed at no cost to the Federal Government.

He said he had expressed the expectation that the project would be commissioned before the end of 2027, even when work had yet to commence.

Makinde also revealed that Debo Akande and Dr Nureni Adeniran were among the individuals he initially considered for the succession plan.

Speaking about Akande, the governor said their longstanding relationship and shared experiences had earned him considerable respect, but he questioned whether Akande possessed the toughness he believed would be required to navigate the challenges ahead.

“I said we have done a lot together, and I respect you, but you are not rugged enough to survive the disaster ocean,” Makinde said.

On Adeniran, Makinde explained that the age bracket he had established for his preferred successor influenced his decision not to select him.

He said he wanted a successor with the youthful energy required to undertake difficult assignments and address the challenges facing Oyo State.

Despite the considerations that informed his choice, Makinde expressed confidence in Adekanmbi’s ability to govern the state, citing his professional background, capacity and temperament.

“Honestly, Bimbo Adekanmbi will do well for Oyo State. He has the capacity and he has all it takes to govern the state,” the governor said.

Makinde also emphasised that he would not seek to exercise godfather control over whoever eventually succeeded him, insisting that he would not impose himself on a future governor.

“I will not be godfather to anyone. I won’t do it. If you do that to me, I will tell you to go to hell,” he said.