Makinde: Fiscal Federalism, Restructuring Important for Good Governance

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that there was a strong link between the trio of fiscal federalism, restructuring and state police and running a government that places the people’s interest first.

The governor stated that it had become imperative for the country to consider the path of constitutional reform to accommodate these ideas if the government would begin to benefit the people.

Makinde stated this yesterday, at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan, where he chaired the 85th birthday lecture of a former governor of Osun State and former acting National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande.

Makinde, who praised Akande for his immense contributions to national development and his service to the old Oyo State, Osun State and the country in different capacities, said it was commendable that people have come together to honour the former governor in his lifetime.

He described him as a political icon and dogged personality, who left good legacies in different positions he held, including Deputy Governor and Secretary to the State Government in the old Oyo State, among others.

Makinde maintained that holders of political offices should use them for the benefit of the people, stressing that Akande contributed immensely to the democracy being enjoyed in Nigeria through some of his thoughts, which remain relevant to date.

“Baba Akande is, indeed an icon, and, as some of you may already know, he served the Old Oyo State as a Secretary to the State Government and I think in that administration, he also served as a Deputy Governor.

“Baba does not need to know where you stand or where things stand with him. He will say it the way it is and heaven may fall after that. When they were reading Baba’s citation, they said his introduction to national politics was in 1977.”