Igbo Community Hails Makinde’s Inclusive Governance, Declares Stake in Oyo’s Future

The Igbo community in Oyo State has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his inclusive approach to governance, declaring its commitment to the state’s development and calling for greater political participation and representation ahead of future elections.

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The community also described itself as an important stakeholder in Oyo State’s future, citing its contributions to commerce, transportation, education, agriculture, hospitality, real estate and other sectors of the state’s economy.

The position was made known by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Makinde on Community Relations (Igbo Community), Honourable Tallest Innocent, during the 2026 Igbo Day and New Yam Festival (Iri Ji) celebration held in Ibadan.

Innocent, who is also the Chairman of the Oyo State Igbo Peace Committee, said the annual celebration went beyond cultural festivities, as it represented the identity, resilience, enterprise and contributions of the Igbo people to the development of the state.

“We are Igbo by heritage, Nigerians by nationality and proud stakeholders in the development of Oyo State,” he declared.

He expressed appreciation to Makinde for creating opportunities for the Igbo community to participate in governance, particularly through the establishment of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Community Relations (Igbo Community).

According to him, the appointment reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and demonstrates that ethnic background or place of origin should not determine one’s opportunity to contribute to the development of the state.

While acknowledging the administration’s efforts in infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and economic development, Innocent called for sustained engagement with the Igbo community, increased political representation and greater access to government empowerment programmes.

He also advocated stronger collaboration with investors and continued government support for peaceful community relations.

Speaking on the political relevance of the community, the SSA noted that Igbo people were resident across all 33 local government areas of Oyo State and remained deeply invested in its stability and prosperity.

He urged members of the community to remain peaceful, politically informed and actively involved in democratic processes ahead of future elections, stressing that political choices should be guided by issues, performance, inclusiveness and developmental priorities.

On his role as Chairman of the Oyo State Igbo Peace Committee, Innocent called for unity among members of the community, warning that internal disagreements and divisions could undermine their collective interests and influence.

“Our greatest strength is not merely our population, businesses or political connections. Our greatest strength is our unity,” he said.

He commended community elders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders for their contributions to reconciliation efforts, urging members to place collective interests above personal ambitions.

The Igbo leader also appreciated the Yoruba people and other ethnic nationalities in Oyo State for promoting peaceful coexistence, cooperation and mutual respect, noting that cultural diversity should serve as a source of strength rather than division.

Addressing youths and women, he called for their increased involvement in leadership, education, entrepreneurship, community development and responsible political participation.

The celebration featured colourful cultural displays and activities marking Iri Ji, one of the most significant festivals in Igbo cultural tradition.

The event ended with a renewed commitment by the Igbo community to peaceful coexistence, inclusive governance and collaboration with other stakeholders towards the development of Oyo State.

Participants also echoed the popular Igbo proverb, “Igwe bụ ike”, meaning “Unity is strength”, as a reaffirmation of their commitment to peace, unity and shared prosperity.