As Governor Seyi Makinde clocks six years in office, conversations across Oyo State have turned to his performance, the state of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the future of governance beyond 2027.
From education, healthcare to security and Infrastructure, many agree that the Makinde years have left visible footprints across the state. In this interview, Honourable Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, popularly known as ODIDIOMO, lends his voice to the discourse. The two term federal lawmaker represents Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West federal constituency of Oyo state at the National Assembly and currently serves as Chairman, House Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity in the House of Representatives.
He speaks on the governor’s performance, the strength of the PDP in Oyo state and why he believes Governor Makinde’s quiet leadership style is worth emulating.
Excerpts
Governor Seyi Makinde is marking six years in office today May 29, 2025. As a PDP leader and lawmaker, how do you assess his journey so far
It has been an extremely impressive journey. I recall the early days in 2019, there were doubts everywhere. People said he lacked experience, has not been in public office before and all of that. But six years later, he has not only proven everyone wrong, he has established himself as one of the most visionary leaders Oyo State has produced. Let’s talk about education. That sector is critical in any government. Governor Seyi Makinde has performed excellently. From building and renovating schools to providing the necessary infrastructure and content for quality education, he has kept his promises. He has consistently paid the counterpart funds to access UBEC support. That is a silent achievement, but a huge one. On security, we have seen real reform. Gone are the days of daily garage wars and street violence. Amotekun is functioning well, the Park Management System has been restructured and there is a smooth working relationship with the federal security agencies, the police, NSCDC, DSS and others. As the Chief Security Officer of the state, he has done excellently well.
What about healthcare delivery
No ward or local government is left out. We now have functional medical centres across the state and they are well-equipped to serve the needs of our people. He didn’t make a lot of noise about it, but if you visit the facilities, you’ll be impressed. That campaign promise has been delivered too. In infrastructure and economic development, he has taken bold steps. The agricultural industrial parks being built across the zones will place Oyo on the map for agribusiness and value-chain development. Those parks will soon be hubs of job creation and economic empowerment.
Many say he doesn’t speak too often or play politics loudly. Do you agree?
That’s actually one of his strengths. He is a silent achiever. While some leaders make noise before acting, he allows his work to speak. He listens, he accepts responsibility when necessary, and he corrects course. That’s maturity. He has never allowed criticism to derail him; instead, he uses it to become better. His popularity is organic. The people feel the difference. His achievements are not limited to Ibadan alone, it cuts across all three senatorial districts. So, yes, he’s not noisy, but he is effective.
Let’s talk about road infrastructure. How would you rate that sector
Very high. He has connected rural communities to urban centres through quality roads. The inner roads in many areas are now being fixed. Go round the state, you’ll see solar powered streetlights lighting up communities. That has improved security and boosted nighttime commercial activity. And then there’s the Ibadan Circular Road, a project conceptualized by former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, but now being implemented by Governor Makinde. That road is changing the economic profile of every area it touches. It’s not just a road; it’s a legacy.
The Ibadan Airport upgrade is generating attention. What’s the significance
It is a visionary move. Right now, we might still have to travel through Lagos, but in a few months, Ibadan will become a major travel hub. Soon, if you want to travel to London, you’ll pass through Ibadan. That’s the future. I remember flying with the governor once and he was pointing out geographical zones and communities from the sky. That’s a leader who knows his terrain deeply and thoroughly. His engineering background shows in his logical approach to governance. Everything is strategic.
What is the current strength of the PDP in Oyo State? Any cracks or concerns
The PDP in Oyo State is strong and united. Governor Makinde’s leadership has helped keep the party people oriented and focused. Yes, politics always comes with its pressures and ambitions, but in Oyo, we are managing it maturely. The people have seen the difference. They know the opposition can’t offer what we have already delivered. Even in the face of criticism, our governor has led with grace and calmness. That’s why the party remains rooted at the grassroots.
Your personal message to Governor Seyi Makinde at six years
May Almighty Allah continue to strengthen you, sir. You’ve kept your promises. You’ve handled criticisms with wisdom. You’ve shown that leadership is not about words but action. You’ve turned challenges into achievements and proven that logic and compassion can go hand in hand. We are proud of you and we will continue to stand with you. Your legacy is secure and the people are solidly behind you. Thank you for being who you are, a servant-leader, a silent achiever and a governor for all.
Finally, what should the people of Oyo State expect in the remaining years of this administration
More impact, more vision, more delivery. I know the governor, he doesn’t rest on his oars. He’s already laying the foundation for what Oyo State should look like in 2030. Whether it’s in education, health, ICT, infrastructure or agriculture, he’s setting up systems that will outlive his administration. Oyo people should stay hopeful. The best is yet to come.
