Engr. Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, has campaigned for a single term for political leaders in Nigeria. In doing so, he has drawn inspiration from the concept of one-term leadership that is utilised by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
This position was voiced by Governor Makinde in reaction to Bishop Wale Oke, who is the National President of PFN. Bishop Wale Oke stated that there is no provision for a second term in the leadership of PFN. Governor Makinde’s statement was in response to this statement.
During the opening ceremony of the PFN’s National Executive Retreat, which was held in Ibadan, Bishop Oke delivered this speech as part of his welcome message.
Makinde underlined that Nigeria should consider adopting the single-term structure, emphasising his support for the implementation of a single term for political leaders in the country. He also emphasised that he is in favour of Nigeria adopting the structure. He explained that even though it was possible that four years would not be enough time to achieve all of the goals, it would still be possible to make a substantial difference.
According to what he said, “The concept that there is no second term in PFN is new to me.” Perhaps there is anything for our country that can be gleaned from pursuing this strategy. A structure with only one term is something I strongly support.
In point of fact, I did not want to serve a second term when I was first elected, and I made it clear to the spiritual leaders in my community that although four years might not be long enough to do everything, they can be sufficient to make a mark that will last and then make room for new leadership.
In addition to this, Makinde brought up the possibility of having a Muslim president and vice president, which caused a stir among the Christian community. He emphasised the importance of change and creativity by stating that “continuing to repeat the same pattern every four years and expecting a different outcome is not viable.”
He related the events of his discussion with spiritual authorities, who were concerned about the possibility of a Muslim running against another Muslim. In response to this, Makinde brought up the point that he first needs to be supplied with an alternate structural option before he can take their preference into consideration.
In addition to that, he brought up the fact that in the past, his party had chosen a Muslim for president and a Christian for vice president, and he went on to explain how these choices were different from those made in the past.