Yesterday, Sunday, the 19th February, 2023 witnessed a superlative performance of Fresh FM Radio Station as the station, in conjunction with others across the state, organized a live debate for the major political parties’ gubernatorial candidates.
The PDP candidate and sitting governor – Engr Seyi Makinde, Accord Party’s Chief Adebayo Adelabu and APC candidate, Sen. Teslim Folarin were to appear for the debate but due to one reason or the other, only two candidates were on air.
The debate has come and gone, the jabs, the arguments and counter arguments by the participants was impressive. Both Gov Seyi Makinde and Chief Adebayo Adelabu spoke with maturity, facts and brotherliness which portends good prospects for our dear state.
However, both of them goofed and become selfish on the issue of successor. In their responses, the agenda is Ibadan and Ibadan only.
Where is the plight of other sections of the state? The Okeogun, Ibarapa, Oyo and Ogbomoso geo-political zones? They too need to taste power and power has to rotate in 2027. Is leadership in Oyo State meant for Ibadan indigenes only? When would another person from zones other than Ibadan have a taste of power in the state?
For equity, fairness and justice in an egalitarian society like ours to prevail, both Gov Seyi Makinde, Chief Adebayo Adelabu and any other likely aspirants from Ibadan should forget 2027 and allow an Okeogun indigene to succeed whoever wins March 11, 2023 gubernatorial election in the state.
As incumbent governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde must be ready and prepared to support an Okeogun candidate for 2027 if only he wants our votes in March 11, 2023.
Esv Ismail Adewoyin
The Convener,
Okeogun Project Forum