Arapaja Congratulates Oyo Indigenes as state Celebrates 50th Anniversary; Commends Gov. Makinde’s Visionary Leadership.

The National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja has congratulated the people of Oyo State as the state celebrates fifty years of her creation.

In a congratulatory statement issued by Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja but made available to Journalists through his Personal Assistant, Bamitale Ibrahim in Ibadan, Oluomo of Ibadanland paid glowing tributes to all past and present leaders ( military and civilians) that have ruled and shaped the state’s development over the last 50 years.

Arapaja who served as the Deputy Governor to late Adebayo Alao Akala between 2007 to 2011 noted that each of the administration that ruled since 1976 when the state was created had uniquely contributed to the progressive ideals, and people-centred governance so far witnessed by the state.

While paying special tribute to the present administration under Engr. Seyi Makinde, Arapaja noted that the Governor deserves loud accolades for his vision in putting the programme together for the celebration of the 50th anniversary; which has provided an opportunity to reminisce on how far Oyo state has gone among the comity of states in the federation.

According to him, “I am very much happy to be alive to witness the Golden jubilee celebration of Oyo State. As somebody who has been privileged to be part of the administrations that had ruled in this state, I can boldly say that if we look back, we have every cause to rejouce and celebrate the 50 years of being a sovereign state. I laud His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde for his vision and ingenuity in packaging this. I equally give credit to his administration for series of reforms that redefined governance and urban management in the state.

Governor Seyi Makinde’s ongoing efforts to consolidate development, promote people oriented programmes, infrastructure expansion and deepen good governance across Oyo State is highly commendable.” He said.

As the programmes continues with its grand finale coming up on Tuesday 3rd February, 2026, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja urged citizens to look at the future of the state with renewed commitment to unity, progress and sustainable development.