The Oyo State Government has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) over its dismissal of Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent media chat, describing the opposition party’s reaction as an indication of its unwillingness to embrace democratic accountability.
The government maintained that direct engagement between elected leaders and citizens remains a fundamental pillar of democracy, insisting that the governor’s decision to address public concerns should be commended rather than criticised.
The governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, stated this in a press release issued on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, while responding to the APC’s assessment of Makinde’s media interaction.
According to Olanrewaju, the media chat provided an opportunity for the governor to explain his administration’s policies, achievements and ongoing initiatives across critical sectors, including security, infrastructure, financial management and local government administration.
He argued that the governor’s willingness to answer questions and provide explanations about government decisions demonstrated transparency and accountability, adding that such engagements were essential to building public trust.
Security: Oyo Government Defends Makinde’s Record
Addressing concerns raised by the opposition over security in the state, Olanrewaju said the Makinde administration had implemented several measures to strengthen the state’s security architecture.
He listed the strengthening of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, expansion of patrol operations, improvement of communication systems, acquisition of surveillance aircraft and collaboration with federal security agencies as some of the steps taken by the government.
The governor’s aide further claimed that these interventions had contributed to a reduction in major crime indicators compared with the situation before Makinde assumed office in 2019.
He consequently dismissed the APC’s criticism of the administration’s security record, maintaining that the government remained committed to protecting lives and property across Oyo State.
Infrastructure, Investment and Economic Growth
On economic development, Olanrewaju rejected the opposition party’s allegation that the state lacked a clear economic direction.
He argued that Oyo State had recorded improvements in internally generated revenue, attracted private-sector investments in agribusiness and other sectors, and embarked on major infrastructure projects designed to stimulate economic activities.
Among the projects highlighted were the Moniya–Iseyin Road, Ogbomoso–Iseyin Road and the Ibadan Circular Road, which he said were improving connectivity and creating new economic opportunities across different parts of the state.
He also identified the proposed upgrade of Ibadan Airport to international standards as part of the administration’s broader strategy to enhance the state’s economic competitiveness and strengthen its international connections.
According to him, these initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, investment attraction and the expansion of economic opportunities for residents.
Government Rejects Claims of Disconnect from Grassroots
The Oyo State Government also dismissed the APC’s claim that Makinde was disconnected from the grassroots, citing town hall meetings, media engagements, empowerment programmes and the restoration of local government elections as evidence of its commitment to public participation.
Olanrewaju maintained that the governor’s media chat was not a politically motivated exercise but part of a broader accountability process intended to keep residents informed about government policies, projects and decisions.
He further pointed to reported national recognitions for Oyo State in the areas of liveability and democratic governance, describing them as independent endorsements of the administration’s performance.
According to the media aide, the recognitions reflected the government’s efforts in security, infrastructure, education, economic development and democratic reforms.
Makinde Administration Remains Focused on Development
Olanrewaju urged the APC to acknowledge the administration’s achievements and engage in constructive criticism, rather than dismissing efforts aimed at informing the public about government activities.
He maintained that political opposition should not become a reason to undermine public communication and accountability.
“Leadership is measured by impact, not noise,” he said, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to delivering development and improving the welfare of residents across Oyo State.
The statement comes amid an ongoing political exchange between the Oyo State Government and the APC over Makinde’s recent media chat and the overall performance of his administration.
While the state government has defended the governor’s record and emphasised its commitment to transparency, the disagreement highlights the continuing political contest over governance, accountability and development in Oyo State.
