Makinde urges Oyo residents to reject religious politics ahead of 2027 polls

Governor Seyi Makinde has called on residents of Oyo State to avoid allowing religion to influence political choices ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Speaking at the farewell ceremony for the state’s 2026 Hajj pilgrims in Ibadan, Makinde said voters should prioritise competence, unity, and a commitment to development when selecting the next governor.

“People have come to me, saying the next governor should be a Muslim, but Oyo State must not go that route.”

He noted that some political actors had suggested the next governor should be a Muslim, but he rejected the idea, insisting that leadership should be determined by ability, vision, and performance rather than religious identity.

“We should pray that God gives us a progressive-minded leader.” He added that at the appropriate time, he would “present the relevant facts for public discourse.”

The governor urged citizens to seek divine guidance in choosing a leader who would sustain development and protect the state’s interests.

He also said Oyo State’s political history shows that elections are not decided by religion, adding that past leaders emerged through broad public support rather than sectarian sentiment.

Makinde stressed that although religion has divided some parts of Nigeria, Oyo State should continue to serve as an example of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

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In addition, he announced the approval of two buses for the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve transportation for pilgrims within Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia, reducing the board’s reliance on borrowed vehicles during Hajj operations.

He also encouraged the pilgrims to use the Hajj period to pray for peace, unity, and prosperity in Oyo State and across Nigeria as the country approaches another election season.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Hashim Atere, commended the administration for upgrading facilities at the Hajj camp and improving logistics. He said the first batch of the state’s 1,036 pilgrims would depart for Saudi Arabia on 3 May 2026.