According to report reaching oyogist.com, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Wednesday appealed to politicians in the state to shun political sentiments and find ways of developing the state.
He made these declarations while congratulating indigenes and residents of the state on the 45th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State.
The state was created during the tenure of late General Murtala Ramat Muhammad who was then the military Head of State.
He said: “As we celebrate the 45th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State, I felicitate my people on this epochal occasion.
“We appreciate the labour of our heroes’ past and the immense contributions made towards the growth and progress of the state by former administrators, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agents and law-abiding residents.
“Today, we are proud to say that Oyo State continues to stand tall as a pace-setter in excellence across different sectors. And, in line with our promise to the people during the electioneering period, we will continue to maintain the standard of excellence the state is known for.
“Already, our government has been implementing policies and programmes that will make the state continue to set the pace in physical, infrastructure and human developments.
“This will continue in the years to come, as we are not going to rest on our oars until Oyo State becomes the state of everyone’s dreams.
“However, this occasion, more than anything else, is a challenge to all citizens and residents of Oyo State: it is another opportunity to bond in the interest of our great state, an opportunity to unite against anything that assails our dear state.
“The state belongs to all of us. As I said while addressing the people during my visit to Ibarapaland, irrespective of our political differences, we must put the interest of our state first, because it will outlast all political tendencies.
“Once again, I congratulate every indigene and resident of Oyo State on this landmark. It is my prayer that God who has brought the state this far will continue to be with us all as we contribute our quota towards its success.”