Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Rotimi Makinde, has publicly clarified a leaked audio that went viral online, describing it as a manipulated recording designed to tarnish his image and sow discord between him and former Osun State Governor, now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola.
Appearing on Oju Abe with Emmanuel Babalola on Saturday, October 10, 2026, on Oodua 90.9 FM, Makinde reaffirmed his loyalty to Oyetola, praising his credentials and describing him as a visionary leader whose value to politics and humanity “can never be diminished.”
He dismissed attempts to pit him against Oyetola, insisting such efforts “will never stand.” He further attributed the attack against him as a result of some articles he wrote in defence of Ife and other sundry issues about Osun politics.
Makinde also extended warm greetings to the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, congratulating him on the success of the Olojo Festival despite being in the United Kingdom during the celebrations.
He prayed for the prosperity of Ile-Ife, its leaders, and its people, while clarifying earlier remarks that had sparked controversy.
He emphasized that his metaphoric reference to “sheep” was never intended to disparage the people of Ife and confirmed he had personally explained the matter to the Ooni and the controversy was neutralized in its entirety.
Reflecting on Osun politics, Makinde acknowledged APC’s loss in the last gubernatorial election but expressed confidence in Oyetola’s enduring influence.
He predicted that the 2027 elections in Osun State would be “amazing” and declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection bid was “a done deal.”
Makinde also highlighted his role as a pioneering member of the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA), recalling how the group mobilized support for Tinubu during the COVID-19 pandemic, in December 16, 2020 when his presidential ambition seemed uncertain.
Beyond politics, Makinde canvassed for industrialization, youth empowerment, and human capital development in Osun State, envisioning the state as a global tourism hub.
He commended Tinubu’s administration for initiatives such as tackling out-of-school children through NELFUND, supporting state police to curb violent crimes, and removing petrol subsidy to fight corruption.
“The campaign of bringing me down has failed,” Makinde declared, adding that his commitment to All Progressives Congress (APC), Oyetola and to national unity remains unwavering.
