The Oyo State Government has criticised the exclusion of Governor Seyi Makinde from the official flag-off of the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road project held in Oluyole Local Government Area of the state.

The state Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, expressed the government’s position in a statement issued on Monday in Ibadan.

Oyelade described the ceremony, held at Idi Ayunre, as one that was overshadowed by politics despite its importance as a major infrastructure project.

The event was attended by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, APC governorship candidate Sarafadeen Alli and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

According to the commissioner, the explanation that Governor Makinde was not invited because he was on leave was not convincing, noting that the state had a constitutionally recognised Acting Governor in office.

“The excuse that the invitation was not extended to Governor Makinde because he was on leave makes the case even more ridiculous because there is a functional Acting Governor on the ground,” Oyelade said.

He added that Makinde was not disturbed by the development but regretted that the event was turned into what he described as a political gathering rather than a unifying occasion.

Oyelade also said the governor remained focused on governance and insisted that political considerations should not overshadow projects meant to benefit the people.

“The course of 2027 is set, and no level of indecorum or desperation from whatever quarters will hold back the will of the people,” the commissioner said.