Let me start by congratulating all the elected Chairmen of the 33 Local Government Areas in Oyo State, less one. We have been informed that the Ido Local Government Area election was rescheduled because Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) was omitted on the ballot. So, here today, we have 32 elected officials for this swearing-in. Let me also take this opportunity to congratulate the good people of Oyo State for this feat. You are the real winners in this process, as you can rightly say that you have elected your representatives. The process was free and fair and in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
As you may know, the Constitution only allows for the election of officials into the 33 local government areas of the state. Also, the Constitution provides that all registered political parties who field candidates can stand to be elected. And so, having allowed all parties to field candidates, the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has conducted these elections and have declared all 32 candidates here winners in their respective local government areas.
To the newly elected and sworn-in Local Government Chairmen, let me state that you have the opportunity to deliver good governance to the people of Oyo State. We cannot over emphasize the importance of governance at the grassroots. The people of Oyo State must feel your presence by way of development and good governance. Just as they are holding me accountable, they will also hold you accountable. I will therefore advise that you replicate the good governance initiatives at the state level at the grassroots level.
On this note, I now pronounce the 32 Local Government Chairmen inaugurated to the glory of God and for the benefit of the good people of Oyo State.
~Governor Seyi Makinde, May 24, 2021