Makinde Running Inclusive Government, Says Oyo Aare Isese

Egbelade, who is also the Baba Yemoja, stated this in an interview with The People’s Verdict, describing Makinde as “a promise keeper” whose policies have fostered equity, religious tolerance, and unity across the state.

According to him, “Despite being a Christian, Governor Makinde has given adequate recognition to all religions. He does not discriminate. It is during his administration that Oyo State is truly experiencing independence. We, the traditional religion worshippers, were despised by previous administrations.”

He recalled that Makinde fulfilled his campaign pledge by declaring Isese Day a public holiday, a gesture that has endeared him to adherents of traditional religion. “If he wants to be governor eight times, all traditional worshippers will support him,” he said.

Egbelade further noted that the governor’s recognition of traditionalists has broken barriers at state events. “Before Makinde, Isese practitioners were not invited to offer prayers at public functions. Now, we are not only invited but fully recognized, and that means a lot to us,” he said.

The priest emphasized that the development has fostered peaceful coexistence among adherents of Islam, Christianity, and traditional religion. He cited the groundbreaking ceremony of the Ijaiye Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, where representatives of the three faiths prayed together and embraced before the governor.

“This recognition has curbed religious crises and even reduced thuggery. Today, Oyo State enjoys peace among people of different religious persuasions,” he said.

Egbelade, however, expressed concern about the post-Makinde era. “My only worry is whether his successor will follow the same path of fairness and tolerance. We hope the next governor will not divide religious groups,” he said.

He praised Makinde for equitable distribution of government palliatives and for boosting tourism through festivals such as Sango and Yemoja, which, he said, attract visitors from across the world and contribute to the state’s economy through hospitality and local businesses.

Highlighting other achievements of the administration, the Aare Isese listed the Ijaiye Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, the upgrade of Ladoke Akintola Airport to international standard, and ongoing road projects across Oyo, Iseyin, Ogbomoso, Ibadan, and Ibarapa.

“Truth be told, Makinde has done well. He is a disciplined man who does the right thing with the right quality. Oyo people will never forget his legacy,” Egbelade declared.