Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has openly expressed regret over his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 general elections, citing the current administration’s failure to deliver a government of national unity and competence. Governor Makinde also shed light on his growing divergence with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, revealing a fundamental disagreement over the future of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and the role of the opposition. The Oyo State helmsman stated that Wike had pledged to “hold PDP for” President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, a move Makinde views as an attempt to undermine the opposition party.
During a meeting with President Tinubu, attended by the Chief of Staff and other officials, Governor Makinde recounted how Mr. Wike purportedly volunteered to secure the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the lead-up to the next presidential contest. This declaration, Makinde asserted, deeply shocked him, leading to a direct confrontation with Wike shortly thereafter. Makinde emphasized his refusal to be part of such an arrangement, asserting his right to independent political action in 2027, distinct from Wike’s stated intentions.
Governor Makinde’s support for President Tinubu in 2023 stemmed from his role within the G-5 group of PDP governors, who championed a Southern presidency after eight years of a Northern leader. He initially backed Nyesom Wike in the PDP primaries. Following the emergence of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a Northerner, as the PDP presidential candidate, Makinde and his allies demanded the resignation of the then National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, also from the North, to ensure regional balance within the party leadership.
Makinde detailed the G-5’s unsuccessful negotiations with Atiku Abubakar, including meetings in Ibadan and London, where they pressed for Ayu’s removal and the elevation of the Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, to acting chairman. Atiku’s alleged dismissal of their concerns, reportedly stating “these small boys, we have moved on,” solidified their resolve. Consequently, Makinde, despite having no prior direct political dealings with the Tinubu camp, opted to support the APC candidate based on a guarantee for a government of national unity and competence.
The Oyo State Governor now expresses profound disappointment that the “government of national unity, national competence” he envisioned has not materialized. He recounted nominating an Oyo State indigene for the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, a request that was ultimately overlooked in favour of the current Minister of Power. Makinde directly communicated to President Tinubu his belief that the appointed minister lacked the capacity to organize the APC in Oyo State, steadfastly declining any involvement in bolstering the rival party within his domain.
Makinde contextualized his actions within a broader commitment to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and federal structure. He warned against the nation drifting towards a one-party state, arguing that such a scenario would stifle bi-partisan dialogue essential for national unity and could lead to civic unrest, drawing parallels with events like the Arab Spring. He stressed that Nigeria’s diversity, exemplified by its various cultures and regions, necessitates a robust federal arrangement and a vibrant opposition.
Despite the internal challenges, Governor Makinde maintains that the PDP remains a viable opposition force. He asserted that the party, through a duly convened convention in Ibadan, had expelled Nyesom Wike and others, emphasizing that there are no legitimate factions within the PDP. He criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for perceived interference in the party’s internal affairs, citing Supreme Court judgments that affirm the autonomy of political parties in determining their leadership.
Makinde issued a stark warning against any attempts to “kill” the PDP, suggesting such actions could inadvertently lead to the demise of democracy itself in Nigeria. He acknowledged public scrutiny regarding the G-5 governors’ role in the PDP’s current state but reiterated his willingness to admit mistakes. He underscored his independence from political “godfatherism,” a principle he adopted early in his career after rejecting old-style politics during his initial forays into electoral contests in Oyo State.
Addressing speculation about his 2027 presidential ambitions, Governor Makinde declared himself “over-qualified” to serve Nigeria at the highest level, citing his successful two-term tenure as Oyo State Governor and extensive professional experience in the oil and gas sector. He affirmed his commitment to speaking his mind and acting in the nation’s best interest, regardless of personal risk, rejecting passive political approaches or succumbing to fear.
