Makinde’s aide resigns, declares bid for Oyo governorship

By Adejayan Gbenga

Comrade Sikiru Bayo Titilola-Sodo has resigned as Special Adviser on Labour Matters to Oyo State Gov. Seyi Makinde to pursue his ambition of contesting the 2027 governorship election in the state.

Titilola-Sodo announced his resignation in a statement issued on Monday through his Media and Publicity Team, saying the decision would allow him to focus on statewide consultations and political engagements ahead of the governorship race.

He said stepping down from the governor’s cabinet reflected his commitment to integrity, transparency, accountability and democratic principles, while expressing appreciation to Makinde for the opportunity to serve in his administration.

“I am grateful to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for giving me the opportunity to serve as Special Adviser on Labour Matters. It has been an honour to contribute my quota to the progress of our dear state and to work with an administration that has made significant strides in governance and infrastructural development,” he said.

The governorship aspirant said his experience in the civil service and organised labour had prepared him for the state’s top job, citing his previous roles as a principal officer in the Oyo State Local Government Service, President of the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Oyo, Permanent Secretary and Special Adviser on Labour Matters.

According to him, those positions strengthened his administrative capacity and deepened his understanding of governance, workers’ welfare and public service, adding that Oyo possesses the human and economic resources needed to become one of Nigeria’s leading states.

Titilola-Sodo pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would ensure equitable distribution of development projects across the state’s geopolitical zones while prioritising security, workers’ welfare, agriculture, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion, rural development, education, healthcare and job creation.

He also promised to implement policies that would attract investment, expand employment opportunities, strengthen public institutions and improve residents’ standard of living, while calling on political stakeholders and the people of Oyo State to support what he described as a vision for a more prosperous, peaceful and united state.