Makinde, Hamzat Clash Over Political Credit in Oyo State

A public dispute over political credit and loyalty has erupted between Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and prominent broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, deepening a rift between the former allies as the 2027 governorship election approaches. The exchange of claims and counterclaims highlights the shifting political alliances in the state ahead of the polls.

The conflict began on Saturday, August 8, 2026, when Hamzat, the Accord Party's governorship candidate, addressed party members in Ibadan. He asserted that he played a pivotal role in bringing Makinde into politics and into the governorship, and therefore deserved recognition for the administration's successes over its eight-year tenure. Hamzat, known for his interventionist radio programme "Kokoro Alate," stated he supported Makinde's initial bid because he believed the governor would serve the people. He complained that he was being denied credit for the administration's achievements while being attacked for its shortcomings.

Governor Makinde responded on Monday, August 10, 2026, during a programme in Ibadan. He directly addressed the claims, stating that while he and Hamzat had known each other before his governorship,...