Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu against actions that could undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions, urging his administration to allow opposition parties to operate freely ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde specifically warned against weakening the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), insisting that political power should be pursued through credible elections rather than efforts to sideline political opponents.
The governor spoke while reacting to the court judgment nullifying the David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a development that has raised concerns about the party’s leadership and the political future of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Makinde appealed directly to Tinubu, stressing that political administrations were temporary, but Nigeria’s democratic institutions must endure.
“Governments will come and go, but our country will remain. Please, do not destroy our institutions, be it the Judiciary or INEC. Stop trying to shut out the opposition,” he said.
He maintained that INEC must remain independent and discharge its constitutional responsibility of conducting free, fair and credible elections without political interference.
Makinde also argued that all political parties and candidates must be given equal opportunities to participate in the electoral process.
According to him, the ruling APC should seek victory through the ballot rather than actions that could weaken opposition parties.
“We all witnessed the court judgment that basically nullified the leadership of a major opposition party, ADC, and also, by that action, the candidature of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar came under threat,” the governor stated.
He reiterated that the judiciary and electoral commission must be protected from political interference to preserve public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
“They must stop trying to shut out the opposition. If you can win, win fair and square in the field,” Makinde added.
Beyond the political controversy, the Oyo governor urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country despite its economic, political and social challenges.
He acknowledged the difficulties confronting citizens but expressed optimism that the country could overcome them through collective commitment and responsible leadership.
“I want to also say to Nigerians, please, don’t give up on this country. Yes, we are passing through challenges; we are faced with a lot of issues, but those issues, those challenges are surmountable,” he said.
Makinde encouraged Nigerians to contribute positively to national development, expressing hope that the country could become a better place to live.
His comments come amid growing political tensions surrounding the ADC leadership dispute and preparations by opposition figures for the 2027 presidential election.
The controversy has also renewed public attention on the role of the judiciary and INEC in ensuring that political parties can participate in the electoral process in accordance with the law.
