Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has urged residents to reject politicians without clear, realistic and people-oriented programmes, asking voters to scrutinise the promises and manifestos of aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde gave the advice on Sunday while speaking with journalists after a wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service in honour of his late mother, Chief (Mrs.) Abigail Omojolagbe Makinde, at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, Ibadan.
The governor urged residents to look beyond campaign promises and assess the feasibility of the programmes presented by political parties and their candidates as the state approaches another election cycle.
He stressed the importance of making informed choices based on clear plans for development and the welfare of the people.
The memorial service marked six years since the death of his mother, who passed away on October 15, 2020.
Reflecting on her life, Makinde described the annual remembrance as an opportunity to recall her values, teachings and the close bond they shared.
He spoke of her motherly affection and their relationship, including occasional disagreements that, he said, always ended in reconciliation.
In his sermon, the Provost of the cathedral, Very Rev. Samuel Olawoyin, drew his message from Deuteronomy 5:16 and commended the governor for consistently honouring the memory of his parents despite the demands of public office.
Olawoyin urged members of the congregation to emulate Makinde’s commitment to honouring his parents.
The cleric also praised the governor’s performance in office, citing development projects across the state’s geopolitical zones and his administration’s attention to the welfare of workers and pensioners.
He encouraged Makinde to remain focused on his responsibilities and trust in God amid commendations and criticism.
Special prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of the governor’s late parents, as well as for Makinde, his siblings and family, and the peace and progress of Oyo State.
Dignitaries who accompanied the governor included the Commissioner for Lands, Akin Funmilayo Williams; Commissioner for Energy, Prof. Dahud Shangodoyin; Allied Peoples Movement (APM) governorship candidate, Bimbo Adekanmbi; Chairman of the Christian Wing of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, Bishop David Moradeyo; and Government House Chaplain, Pastor Layi Adisa.
Family members and other government officials were also present at the memorial service.
