Oyo gets 17 new permanent secretaries as Makinde emphasizes integrity, loyalty

By Adejayan Gbenga

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has sworn in 17 newly appointed permanent secretaries in the state’s civil service, amid urging them to demonstrate loyalty, integrity and commitment to the development of the state.

The swearing-in ceremony was held on Tuesday at the executive council chamber of the governor’s office in Ibadan, where the governor charged the newly sworn-in officials to run their offices with probity and transparency, ensuring their personal interests do not conflict with official duties.

Makinde explained that the appointment followed his administration’s policy of rewarding excellence, noting that the selection process was largely based on merit and competence rather than external influence.

He stated that the candidates underwent examinations and were selected from the list of successful participants, and efforts were also made to ensure a balance across the geopolitical zones of the state.

The governor equally indicated that some individuals who performed well in the examinations might not have been selected due to certain factors like overrepresentation from certain zones.

Makinde further urged the new Permanent Secretaries to remain loyal to Oyo State rather than to any individual, stressing that governments and political actors will always change over time.

“A new governor may emerge in the state by this time next year. Therefore, civil servants must remain committed to serving the state and its people irrespective of changes in political leadership,” he said.

The event was largely attended by dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; Chief Judge of the state, Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi; and the Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni, among others.