Makinde Archives - Citybuzz News

Makinde Campaign Condemns Alleged Blockade of Peter Obi’s Convoy in Benue••• Accuses APC of Desperation to Silence Opposition Ahead of 2027

September 9, 2026 by Maria Adeleke

IBADAN — The campaign organisation of the Presidential Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Engr. Seyi Makinde, has condemned the alleged obstruction of the convoy of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State. The campaign, in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, described the incident as “unwarranted” and alleged that it was part of attempts to intimidate opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections. Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, was reportedly in Benue on Tuesday to visit families affected by the killings in Yelwata when his convoy was allegedly obstructed by suspected state-sponsored thugs. The Makinde campaign described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, alleging that the development represented a new dimension in what it characterised as the ruling All Progressives Congress’ efforts to stifle opposition activities ahead of the 2027 elections. The campaign further linked the incident to Obi’s participation in the inauguration of the Makinde/Daura Presidential Campaign Office on Monday, September 7, 2026, where he joined other opposition figures to express solidarity with Makinde. According to the statement, the ruling APC was “seriously afraid and completely rattled” by recent political developments, which it alleged had resulted in the use of intimidation, harassment and obstruction against opposition leaders. The campaign also faulted the explanation reportedly attributed to the Benue State Government that Obi did not obtain prior permission before visiting the state. It argued that Nigerian citizens have constitutional rights to move freely within the country and associate with others without seeking permission from state authorities. The statement cited Sections 40 and 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which provide for freedom of assembly and association as well as freedom of movement, respectively. The campaign said, “Every Nigerian, whether presidential candidate or not, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct his or her legitimate activity without any prior permission or notice.” It argued that roadblocks and the alleged deployment of thugs to obstruct opposition candidates were inconsistent with the principles of a constitutional democracy. The campaign consequently called on the Nigeria Police Force to commence a full investigation into the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice. It said such action was necessary to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Makinde campaign reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful electoral process, stressing that the reported incident would not deter it from participating in legitimate political activities. “We remain committed to a peaceful electoral process, but it is important to state that we shall not be deterred nor cowed by the antics of those who seek to make peaceful participation impossible,” the statement added

Oyo Declares August 20 Public Holiday For Isese Day Celebration•••Makinde Calls For Prayers For Peace, Unity, Stability

August 19, 2026 by admin

The Oyo State Government has announced Thursday, August 20, 2026, as a work-free day across the state to commemorate this year’s Isese Day celebration. The declaration was contained in a statement issued and signed by the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, on Wednesday. According to the statement, Governor Seyi Makinde graciously approved the work-free day to enable residents to commemorate the traditional festival. The government urged residents to use the occasion to offer prayers for peace, unity and stability in Oyo State and Nigeria at large. The statement quoted the governor as requesting that the celebration be used as an opportunity to pray for the continued peace and progress of the state, as well as the country.

Makinde: I Won’t Become Political Godfather to My Successor

August 10, 2026 by admin

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Monday said he would not seek to become a political godfather or dictate the affairs of government after leaving office in 2027, stressing that his successor would be allowed to govern independently. He stated this while playing host to members of the Muslim community at a Hijrah 1448 luncheon, held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, in Ibadan, the state capital. Makinde stressed that having spent eight years in office serving the people of Oyo, he would not seek to remain in control of the government after 2027, as his successor would be allowed to provide leadership without undue interference. The governor said, “I won’t be a political godfather to my successor. After eight years of serving the people of Oyo State, I will ensure that there is a smooth transition and that whoever succeeds me is given the opportunity to develop and implement policies in line with the aspirations and yearnings of the people. “The essence of political leadership should not be the ability to control those who come after a public office holder, but the willingness to serve humanity and leave behind institutions and structures that can continue to benefit the people.” Makinde called on eligible voters to pay close attention to the qualities of candidates seeking political offices ahead of the 2027 general elections, rather than allowing ethnic, religious or other primordial considerations to determine their choices. “Leadership should be about service to humanity, not about control. As we approach another election period, I want to urge our people, especially our Muslim brothers and sisters, to hold those seeking political office accountable. “Do not assess political aspirants based on ethnicity, religion or other primordial considerations. Look at their competence, their character and their commitment to public service. Ask yourselves what they have done, what they can do and whether they genuinely have the interest of the people at heart. “Governance is about improving the lives of the people. Those entrusted with public office must always put the interest of the citizens above their personal interests or political interests. That is the essence of leadership and that is what our people deserve,“ he said. The state helmsman, therefore, assured the residents that his administration would remain focused on delivering good governance and consolidating its achievements throughout the remainder of its tenure. “Our remaining period in office will be dedicated to consolidating the achievements we have recorded so far and delivering more impactful projects and programmes for the benefit of our people across the state. “Until the expiration of this administration, we will continue to make decisions and take actions that will promote development, peace and prosperity in Oyo. We will continue to work for the people and ensure that the resources entrusted to us are used for the benefit of the people,“ Makinde said. He thanked the people of the state for the confidence reposed in his administration and for the support extended to his government throughout the past eight years. “I want to appreciate the people of Oyo for the confidence and support you have given this administration over the last eight years. We do not take that support for granted. I also want to sincerely appreciate the Muslim community for your partnership and your contributions to the growth and stability of our state. Your support has been important to the progress we have made.” Makinde said his administration would remain committed to ensuring that every segment of the state felt a sense of belonging in governance.

Makinde Visits Rescued Oriire Pupils, Teachers, Promises Trauma Support, Family Reunion, Honour Fallen Heroes

July 11, 2026 by admin

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Saturday paid a visit to the pupils and teachers rescued from the Oriire Local Government Area school abduction at the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Facility, where he welcomed their safe return and pledged sustained medical care as well as psychological support for the victims. The victims, comprising 39 pupils and five of the seven abducted teachers, were released after spending weeks in captivity. The governor, who interacted with the children and their teachers during the visit, described their rescue as a significant development and commended the security personnel involved in the operation. Makinde said he was delighted that the children had regained their freedom, while acknowledging the sacrifices made by officers and personnel who participated in the rescue effort. “I am very happy that the children are back, all 39 of them, alongside five of the seven teachers. We give glory to God, and we appreciate our troops, the officers and men who played a significant role in securing their release,” the governor said. He also condoled with families of security personnel who lost their lives during the operation, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten. “We also remember the officers and personnel we lost during this process. To all the families who lost their loved ones, we want to assure them that their sacrifices will not be in vain,” he added. The governor said his interaction with the rescued victims showed that they were happy to have regained their freedom, but noted that some of them were still weak and would require further medical attention. “Having interacted with the children and their teachers, I can say that they are happy to be out of captivity. When anyone’s freedom is taken away, it affects their state of mind, but they are grateful to be back,” Makinde said. “Some of them are still very weak and will require medical attention. There are also post-traumatic issues that need to be addressed, but we have a team ready to provide the necessary support and care.” On plans to reunite the victims with their families, Makinde explained that medical and psychological assessments would continue for the next 48 hours before the formal handover process. “By Monday, we expect that an assessment would have been completed, and there may be a formal transfer from the military to the state government. From there, we will manage the process going forward,” he said. The governor added that arrangements were already being made to allow family members to visit their loved ones, particularly a young girl among the victims who had repeatedly asked for her mother. “Today, we are already putting logistics in place to allow some family members to come and see them. There is a little girl among them who has continuously been asking, ‘Where is my mum? Where is my mum?’ We want to make it possible for her mother to come and reunite with her,” Makinde said. While reacting to security challenges facing the country, the governor called for unity and collective efforts, urging Nigerians to avoid division during difficult times. “My final message is that this is our country. Every country around the world faces challenges. When we are confronted with difficulties, it is not the time to sow seeds of division; rather, it is the time for us to come together and confront those challenges collectively,” he said. Makinde added that he would later provide a detailed briefing to the people of Oyo State and Nigerians on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and rescue operation. “Later in the week, I will officially brief the people of Oyo State and the nation at large on what exactly transpired,” he added.

Oyo Abduction Came Hours After My 2027 Presidential Declaration — Makinde

July 10, 2026 by admin

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed that the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area happened only a few hours after he publicly announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 election. Makinde made the remark while addressing a meeting with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and leaders of the Allied Peoples Movement in Bauchi, recalling that Oyo had not recorded a similar incident during his seven years in office before the May 15 attack. “For seven years, we didn’t witness anything like this in Oyo State. I declared to run for the presidency of Nigeria at four o’clock, and by 9 a.m. the following morning, the children were abducted,” Makinde said. Hours after Makinde’s remarks in Bauchi, the Presidency announced that all the victims had been rescued after spending 56 days in captivity. The Presidency said the victims were freed during a joint operation involving the military, the Department of State Services and the police, with eight suspected kidnappers arrested and others neutralised. The Presidency disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were apprehended and are being held by the Department of State Services (DSS), while several other suspects were neutralised during the security operation.

Makinde Clinches APM Presidential Nomination

May 30, 2026 by admin

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has been announced as the presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement for the 2027 general election. Makinde emerged at the party’s presidential primary held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Saturday. In his acceptance speech, the governor said his ambition was driven by the need to restore hope and rebuild confidence in the country. He said, “I stand before you today (Saturday) with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility as I accept the nomination to serve as the Presidential Candidate of the Allied People’s Movement for the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “I believe that we possess the capacity to rebuild our economy through honesty, discipline and practical reforms. When I speak of practical reforms, I mean reforms that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.” The governor promised reforms in the oil and gas sector, saying Nigerians should benefit more from the country’s natural resources. “Nigerians must benefit from the fact that we are an oil-producing nation, just as citizens of other resource-producing countries benefit from their natural wealth. “The NNPC must be reformed into a lean, efficient and commercially driven institution through proper corporate restructuring, stronger partnerships and institutional reforms,” he stated. Makinde also identified agriculture as a key area for economic growth, stressing the need to improve production, processing, storage and agricultural logistics. Makinde explained that his campaign would focus on competence and solutions rather than empty promises. Speaking at the event, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by his deputy, Mohammed Jatau, endorsed Makinde’s candidacy and described him as a leader capable of moving Nigeria forward. “We are here on behalf of the government and people of Bauchi State to support, endorse and celebrate the emergence of our dear distinguished brother, Oluwaseyi Makinde, as the Presidential Candidate of the Allied People’s Movement,” he said. Also speaking, APM National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle described the primary as peaceful and transparent.

Makinde Promises Safe Return Of Kidnapped Oyo Teachers, Students Despite Explosive Attacks On Security Team

May 18, 2026 by admin

Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents of Oyo State that his administration would deploy every available resource to secure the safe rescue of teachers and students abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area of the state. The governor gave the assurance on Sunday during a press briefing with security chiefs, amid growing tension over the abduction of pupils, students and school staff from communities in the Oriire axis. Makinde disclosed that some members of the joint security operation involved in rescue efforts were wounded after suspected terrorists detonated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted around the Old Oyo National Park, where the victims were reportedly being held. According to him, the injured operatives, including personnel of the Amotekun Corps and the Nigerian Army, are currently receiving medical treatment. The governor described the situation as painful and challenging, promising that the state government would continue to intensify both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to secure the victims’ release. “First, let me appeal to the families involved that their government is working around the clock to ensure that we tackle the challenges and support our troops and service commanders,” Makinde said. “What we know right now is that seven teachers were abducted. Unfortunately, we got a video this morning showing that one of the teachers, believed to be the Mathematics teacher, was seriously injured by the terrorists.” He added that there may not be immediate solutions due to the complexity of the operation, but vowed that the government would “push itself to the limits” to ensure the victims return safely. The governor also confirmed that religious leaders, community elders and other stakeholders had joined intervention efforts, including the Nigerian Baptist Convention, since one of the affected schools belongs to the denomination. “There have been interventions from leaders, elders, and religious leaders, especially the Baptist Convention because one of the affected schools is a Baptist school,” he stated. Makinde appealed to residents of the affected communities to cooperate with security agencies and avoid actions capable of frustrating ongoing rescue operations. The abduction occurred on Friday when armed men invaded schools in Yawota and Esiele communities in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting teachers and students in one of the most disturbing attacks recorded in the area. The governor further disclosed that preliminary investigations had uncovered possible collaboration between the attackers and some residents within the affected communities. According to security reports presented during the briefing, six suspects had already been arrested over alleged involvement in logistics and information sharing for the terrorists, while three other persons of interest were also being interrogated by security agencies. “Some of them are believed to be informants or people handling logistics for the terrorists,” the governor said. Makinde stressed that sustained government presence in vulnerable communities remained critical in the fight against insecurity, warning that terrorists could return once security operations are relaxed. He also acknowledged concerns over the safety of schools in remote communities and assured residents that the government would continue reviewing and strengthening security architecture around educational institutions and other vulnerable locations. The governor confirmed that he had also engaged neighbouring states, including Kwara State, on the need to strengthen cross-border security cooperation to prevent future attacks. Meanwhile, the Oyo State Police Command and other security agencies have continued coordinated operations aimed at rescuing the abducted victims and apprehending those behind the attacks.

BREAKING: Makinde Reveals Preferred Successor

May 6, 2026 by admin

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has identified Mr. Abimbola Adekambi, a former Commissioner for Finance during the administration of late ex-governor Abiola Ajimobi, as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship election. The disclosure was confirmed on Wednesday night by the Oyo State Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Michael Ogunshina, during an exclusive telephone conversation. The development is already generating fresh debate within political circles, cutting across both the ruling PDP and opposition parties in the state. It was gathered that the decision emerged from a series of high-level consultations involving key stakeholders and power brokers within Oyo’s political landscape. Although Governor Makinde has yet to make a formal public declaration, Ogunshina affirmed that the decision has effectively been communicated within party ranks. “Yes, it is confirmed, the governor has announced him,” Ogunshina said. Adekambi, a technocrat with a strong background in finance and public administration, previously served under the administration of the late former governor Ajimobi and is widely regarded as experienced in fiscal management. His emergence as Makinde’s preferred successor signals a strategic political move that could reshape alignments ahead of the 2027 polls. Political observers note that the announcement may trigger internal recalibration within the PDP, as well as influence the calculations of opposition parties preparing for the next electoral cycle. While supporters of the move see it as a continuity strategy anchored on competence and governance experience, critics argue it could spark internal contestation within the ruling party over the selection process. As the political atmosphere gradually builds toward 2027, Makinde’s endorsement of Adekambi is expected to remain a focal point in Oyo State’s evolving succession dynamics.

We’ll Keep Religion From Tearing Oyo Apart – Makinde

April 29, 2026 by admin

The Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde on Wednesday assured residents of Oyo State that religion would not be allowed to create division, stressing that the people remain united and will continue to stand as one. He gave this assurance while bidding farewell to pilgrims intending to perform the 2026 Hajj at the state Hajj Camp, Olodo in Ibadan, the state capital. The governor urged the intending pilgrims to pray for God’s guidance in choosing the next set of leaders, who would continue where his administration stops in 2027. Makinde equally tasked the pilgrims to use the opportunity of their pilgrimage to the Holy Land to pray for both the state and Nigeria as the electioneering period approaches. He also enjoined them to be good ambassadors of the state. “In Oyo State, we are all one. We won’t allow religion to divide us. I charge the intending pilgrims to pray for our state and country when they get to the Holy Land, because this is the period leading to the next election, and a new set of leaders will emerge. “Whatever decision we make, we will have to live with it for the next four years. So, I want you to pray for our state and country. There is a lot of discussion going on right now on the choice of who would become the next governor. The conversation going on is about a Muslim being my successor, but I want you to pray that God should choose the person who would sustain the achievements and the good works we are doing in the state. “What matters most is that we must stay united. The progress of Oyo is what is important to us, and I believe God will answer our prayers. “For us in this state, religion is not an issue. We have all religions in our various families, and we have always coexisted peacefully. So, I have told those talking about Muslim candidature that we should not be stampeded into taking decisions on the basis of religion, and I know they understand me.” The governor, while responding to some of the requests of the board, promised to complete the ongoing mosque construction and also donate a bus for the use of the board in the state and another bus for the ease of movement of the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia during Hajj. Commenting on how the state pilgrims have always been good ambassadors of the state, the governor said, “We have been extremely lucky in this state, because our pilgrims have always been different; they have always been good ambassadors of the state. “So, for the ease of the Hajj operations, I will give a new bus to the state pilgrims in the Holy land. I will also donate another one for the use of the board here. On this note, I want to congratulate the intending pilgrims and wish you a safe journey.” Makinde also used the occasion to commend the Chairman of the state Pilgrims Welfare Board, Wahab Atere, and members of the board for the successful planning and coordination of the 2026 Hajj operations. Earlier, Atere informed the gathering that 1,036 intending pilgrims would perform the Hajj rites from the state, appreciating Governor Makinde for his continuous support to the Muslim community and the board towards a smooth 2026 Hajj exercise. He explained that with the support of the governor, the state has secured the visas and befitting accommodations for all the intending pilgrims, who would be airlifted in batches starting from May 3, 2026. Also in their separate goodwill messages, the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal and former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, thanked the governor for his unwavering support to the Muslim Ummah, urging them to remain focused, be good ambassadors of the state and to perform the Hajj rites devotedly. Dignitaries at the event were the Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; President, the state Customary Court of Appeal, Tajudeen Abdulganiyu; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Bayo Lawal; PDP South-West Woman Leader, Bose Adedibu; Chairman, Ibadan Airport Upgrade, Bimbo Adekanmbi; state Chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Sikiru Sanda; Commissioners and other top government functionaries. Also in attendance were the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of the State, Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere; Executive Secretary, Muslims in South-Western Nigeria, Wole Abass; Kamil Oloso; and members of the League of Imams and Alfas.

JUST IN: S’West PDP Backs Makinde, Declares Loyalty To Turaki-led NWC

April 20, 2026 by admin

IBADAN — THE South West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared its full alignment with Seyi Makinde, while reaffirming its unwavering loyalty to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) led by Aminu Turaki. The position was made known on Monday during a press conference held at the party’s zonal headquarters, Adagunodo House, in Ibadan. Speaking on behalf of the zonal leadership, the PDP South West Publicity Secretary, Sanya Atofarati, said the Zonal Executive Committee stands in solidarity with Nigerians amid prevailing economic and security challenges across the country. Atofarati noted that the party remains committed to offering what he described as a credible alternative anchored on people-oriented governance, stability, and national development. The zone also threw its weight behind Governor Makinde, commending his administration for consistent delivery of democratic dividends and dedication to strengthening democratic institutions. “The South West Zonal Executive Committee unequivocally identifies with and stands firmly behind Governor Seyi Makinde, whose leadership continues to exemplify stability, focus, and commitment to the welfare of the people,” the statement read. The party dismissed reports of an alleged impeachment plot against the governor, describing them as unfounded and a calculated attempt to create political tension. It urged Nigerians to disregard such claims. The PDP also criticised former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, over what it described as “reckless and divisive” remarks capable of inciting discord, particularly through the politicisation of traditional institutions. According to the statement, such comments are “irresponsible and self-serving” and do not reflect the position of the PDP in the South West. The party further maintained that Fayose remains expelled and should refrain from actions capable of creating friction between the Makinde administration and the Olubadan Palace. It also warned against dragging the revered Olubadan stool into partisan politics, stressing that the relationship between the monarch, Rashidi Ladoja, and Governor Makinde remains cordial. Calling for calm, the PDP urged citizens to remain vigilant and united, warning against attempts by “disgruntled political actors” to destabilise the polity for personal interests. Reaffirming its commitment to internal cohesion, the zone pledged total support for the Turaki-led NWC, emphasising the need for unity, discipline, and collective purpose within the party. The party also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their resilience and continued faith, assuring that it remains committed to providing responsible leadership and steering the country towards stability and prosperity.