Leaders of Igbo communities in Oyo State have declared their support for Governor Seyi Makinde, praising his administration’s performance while criticizing recent remarks attributed to former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose.
The position was made known on Saturday during a press conference held in Ibadan, where representatives of the Igbo community commended what they described as inclusive governance, improved infrastructure, and sustained peace under Makinde’s leadership.
The briefing took place at the Solid Minerals Development Agency within the state secretariat complex. It drew participation from stakeholders across several Igbo groups resident in the state, including John Idoko, Ogochukwu Ogbonna, Barrister Ndo Ofurunna, Ukachi Clement, Valentine Chukwu, and Kingly Ike.
The event was facilitated by Rita Orji, a former member of the House of Representatives and an ally of the governor.
Addressing journalists, the group credited the Makinde administration with maintaining a stable security environment and driving infrastructural growth, particularly in road construction and economic development.
They noted that Igbo residents across major towns such as Ibadan, Oyo, Ogbomoso, and Iseyin have continued to operate businesses in a peaceful atmosphere, attributing this to policies they described as fair and inclusive.
According to the leaders, the governor’s approach to governance has strengthened confidence among non-indigenes and fostered a sense of belonging within the state.
Looking ahead to the 2027 governorship election, the stakeholders pledged their political support to Makinde and indicated readiness to back any candidate he endorses as his successor.
“We stand solidly with Governor Seyi Makinde because of his performance and commitment to development,” one of the speakers said. “We will support whoever he puts forward to sustain the progress recorded so far.”
They emphasized the importance of continuity in governance, noting that sustained policies would be critical to the state’s long-term growth and stability.
The group also reacted to recent comments linked to Fayose, cautioning political figures outside the state against making statements that could disrupt the political climate in Oyo.
They urged restraint, stressing that the state’s relative peace should not be undermined by external political interference.
“Oyo State remains focused on governance and development, not political distractions,” a representative said. “Those making unnecessary remarks should respect the state’s political environment.”
The stakeholders further called on leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to prioritize unity and avoid actions capable of creating internal divisions ahead of future elections.
They maintained that residents of Oyo State are more concerned with development and stability than political controversies, adding that any attempt to introduce tension into the state would be resisted.
The group concluded that the state’s progress under the current administration reflects a collective commitment to peace, urging all political actors to sustain that trajectory.