From the Corridors of Power: Awaiting the Leader After Makinde

After Makinde: Who Will Carry the Torch of Oyo’s Transformation?

One of the questions that often occupies my solitude is this: Can Nigeria, can Oyo State, still produce another man like Engr. Abiodun Oluseyi (Saheed) Makinde, FNSE, on the ballot in 2027?

If yes, then how will such a man be found? Who will identify him? At what time, stage, or circumstance will he emerge? These are the questions that come to mind whenever I reflect on Makinde’s unrelenting, hardworking spirit—a leader whose passion hovers over Oyo State, seeking to transform it into a haven of peace, growth, and prosperity.

Many may not fully understand his semantics, methods, or style of leadership. From afar, they see only a fragment. But those who encounter him closely discover a free and simple man, with an empowered mind and undisputed virtues infused with sincerity and guarded jealously.

Makinde’s political journey was never by accident. His senatorial bids in 2007 and 2011 were not wasted efforts, as some suggested. They were noble attempts to respond to the cries of the common man who could not afford to educate their children, to wrestle unseen powers draining the fabric of society, and to challenge those who trampled on the rights of the voiceless. He was already planting seeds of a new foundation: a politics of hope, a politics for the grassroots.

In 2015, after losing twice, he sought the governorship under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Though he won the primaries and contested, the larger political system at the time was not ready for his vision. Many betrayed him, some used him, others took his resources but not his ideas. Yet, he remained steadfast.

Then came 2019, the appointed time. Under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), he returned to the ballot and won decisively. Though some doubted, resisted, and attempted to manipulate the people’s will, God proved them wrong. His victory was divine, his mandate undeniable.

Today, Makinde stands vindicated. Even his fiercest critics now acknowledge his achievements. From economic reforms to educational revival, from infrastructural development to social welfare, he has made history and redefined leadership in Oyo State. No wonder many now liken him to Chief Obafemi Awolowo, calling him Awolowo Incarnate.

As someone who has studied Makinde’s leadership trajectory and philanthropic spirit for over two decades, I affirm that he is a man of his word. For this reason, I will always believe in him, trust his process, and support his vision. If the constitution allowed, many of us would wish to see him on the 2027 ballot for a third term.

But destiny writes a different script. As history turns its page, the searchlight shifts toward the corridors of power and governance. Somewhere, quietly preparing, silently observing, or perhaps already walking among us—is the one destined to carry forward this uncommon legacy.

Who will he be?

When will he emerge?

And will he possess the courage, vision, and compassion to step into Makinde’s shoes?

Only time, the greatest revealer, holds the answer.

Written by

Egalitarian Digital Communicator, Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez (MOE)

Codenamed IJOBA AUTHORITY | Convener, Emerging Force Platform | Head Youth Media Campaign for GSM Re-election Bid 2023 | He4She Crusader | Loyalist of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, FNSE, DSc, GSSRS.