The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Delta Govt restates timely, quality delivery of road projects

    Delta Govt restates timely, quality delivery of road projects

    …warns against illegal speed breakers

    The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the timely delivery of durable and high-quality road infrastructure across the state, warning communities and contractors against the indiscriminate installation of illegal speed breakers on public roads.

    The State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, gave the assurance during an inspection tour of ongoing road rehabilitation and construction projects in Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas.

    Izeze, who was accompanied by engineers from the Ministry of Works, said while speaking at the

    13-km Ekakpamre–Ekrokpe–Usieffurun–Orhuwhorun Road rehabilitation project that the intervention was designed to significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity for residents, particularly those commuting between Orhuwhorun, Usieffurun and Ekakpamre.

    He explained that although the project, awarded in June 2024, had recorded appreciable progress, it was confronted with some challenges, especially drainage issues caused by an existing natural water channel within the corridor.

    Read Also: Brains behind alleged coup know the consequences – Defence Minister

    “This is another important project designed to ease movement and reduce travel time for our people. It is a 13-kilometre rehabilitation, and while work so far is commendable, some challenges still exist. We have taken note of them and will present them to His Excellency in Asaba,” Izeze said.

    According to him, resolving the drainage concerns was critical to ensuring the long-term durability of the road, particularly during the rainy season.

    “We need an effective discharge system to properly channel floodwaters. We are hopeful that these issues will be addressed so that the road will stand the test of time. We have also urged the contractor to increase the pace of work to enable asphalt laying before the rains fully set in,” he added.

    On the Effurun–Otor/Iwhrekekan–Ughevwughe–Eruemukohwaren–Otor-Edo–Usieffurun Road project in Ughelli South, the commissioner disclosed that about 4.2 kilometres of drainage works had been completed, with the project now awaiting the wearing course and the installation of some concrete slabs.

    He expressed concern over the slow pace of work along the Ughevwughe axis but noted that the contractor had since returned to site.

    Earlier, the Managing Director of Obakpor Engineering, the construction firm handling the project, Mr. Ricardo Oguma, said the work had been challenging due to the densely built-up nature of the communities and intense human activities along the corridor.

    He explained that some speed bumps were installed at busy junctions to moderate traffic flow, noting that the road serves as a major route within the area.

    “Our total drainage provision is about 750 metres along the 13-kilometre stretch, which is what was captured in the project, and we have completed it,” Oguma said.

  • OPS seeks tax relief, access to finance, other incentives

    OPS seeks tax relief, access to finance, other incentives

    The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN) has called for urgent policy coherence, affordable financing, smart regulation aimed  at safeguarding businesses and repositioning the economy for sustainable growth.

    Chairman of OPSN, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, made the call in his welcome remarks at the OPSN Strategy Meeting at the weekend, stressing that Nigeria’s private sector remains the country’s most reliable engine for growth, employment, innovation, and resilience.

    He noted that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for over 90 percent of businesses and more than 80 per cent of employment, while the private sector contributes well over half of national GDP.

    The OPSN boss also lamented that businesses are grappling with rising input costs, exchange rate volatility, energy constraints, logistics inefficiencies, and shrinking consumer purchasing power, warning that these pressures threaten production, payroll decisions, and national competitiveness.

    He urged the government to treat private sector survival and growth as a national priority, adding that cumbersome business registration processes, high cost of finance, and regulatory overlaps continue to undermine enterprise development.

    Ibrahim further advocated reforms to ease business entry and formalisation, calling for faster turnaround times at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and more affordable intellectual property protection.

    Read Also: Individuals must file tax returns by March 31, employers, January 31 – Oyedele

    He decried domestic credit to the private sector remaining below 15 percent of GDP, far lower than peer economies, and described high lending rates as inimical to long-term investment.

    According to him, the proposed OPSN Bank, designed to provide single-digit interest financing, could unlock manufacturing capacity, deepen value chains, and stimulate job creation.

    He also criticised regulatory excesses, including overlapping inspections and duplicative compliance demands, which he said increased operating costs, particularly for manufacturers and SMEs.

    On climate policy, Ibrahim urged a realistic and context-sensitive green transition, noting that ESG compliance and carbon market readiness require capacity building, access to green finance, and policy clarity to prevent Nigerian businesses from being edged out of global value chains.

    He added that revitalising export infrastructure, especially Export Trade Houses, remains critical to boosting non-oil exports and foreign exchange earnings.

    Also speaking to journalists, National President of the Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Dr. Abdulrashid Yerima, welcomed the ongoing tax reform, describing it as a long-awaited intervention capable of addressing the persistent challenges facing MSMEs.

    He said the reforms would significantly reduce the burden of multiple taxation, arbitrary levies, and excessive import duties that have historically constrained small businesses.

    Yerima explained that for years, NASME members have endured overlapping taxes imposed by different tiers of government, alongside unauthorised collections by non-state actors, which have eroded profitability and discouraged expansion.

    He expressed optimism that the reform would deliver a clearer, fairer, and more predictable tax framework, enabling MSMEs to reinvest, scale operations, create jobs, and drive inclusive economic growth.

    He urged robust monitoring and stakeholder engagement to ensure that the relief measures reach genuine operators and translate into improved ease of doing business and stronger investor confidence.

    Also speaking, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, said the strategy meeting was convened to critically examine the impact of the new tax law on OPSN members, with focus on assessment methodology, e-invoicing, and other operational concerns.

    He expressed strong support for the tax reform, describing it as timely and essential to easing the burden on manufacturers and stimulating economic recovery.

    However, Meshioye cautioned that the success of the reform would depend largely on faithful and transparent implementation, especially by sub-national governments, warning that inconsistent application across states could undermine its benefits.

    He stressed the need for continuous engagement and collaboration with relevant agencies to prevent abuse by illegal tax collectors and ensure strict enforcement of approved tax provisions.

    According to him, only a transparent, predictable, and uniformly applied tax regime can restore business confidence, attract investment, and reposition Nigeria’s manufacturing sector for sustained growth.

  • Ex-The Nation Correspondent, Isaac Ombe, dies in auto crash

    Ex-The Nation Correspondent, Isaac Ombe, dies in auto crash

    The Federated Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council has expressed “profound shock and deep sorrow” over the death of an ex-The Nation reporter, Isaac Ombe.

    Mr Ombe died in the horrific auto accident weekend along the Toru-Orua axis of the Sagbama/Ekeremor Road, Yenagoa LGA.

    A signed statement by the Federated Correspondents Chapel’s Chairman, Tife Owolabi and Secretary, Emem Idio, respectively, said the accident involved an 18-seater bus conveying mourners to the burial ceremony of Bayelsa State’s late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

    Read Also: Brains behind alleged coup know the consequences – Defence Minister

    Part of the statement reads, “The crash claimed precious lives, including that of Isaac Ombe, leaving hearts broken and the journalism family in mourning.

    “Ombe was a thoroughbred journalist of impeccable integrity and dedication. He had distinguished himself through his work with reputable media outfits such as The Nation, National Mirror, The Comet, News Express and The Verbatim. He was also a former executive member of our chapel before he transitioned to serve at the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority (NDBDA). His passion for truth, professionalism, and camaraderie will forever be remembered by all who knew him.”

    The statement expressed “heartfelt condolence message to the bereaved family, friends, and colleagues.”

    Owolabi prayed to the Almighty God to “grant the family divine comfort, unwavering strength, and the grace to bear this irreparable loss during these profoundly painful times.”

  • AAC officially berths in Delta, assures on people-centred leadership

    AAC officially berths in Delta, assures on people-centred leadership

    The African Action Congress (AAC) party has officially been unveiled to the people of Delta State with a strong commitment to good governance, accountability, and people-driven development.

    With the slogan “Power to the People,” the AAC seeks to restore confidence in leadership and ensure that governance truly reflects the will and welfare of the citizens.

    Speaking on behalf of the party, the state spokesperson, Mr. Efe Agabi, stated that the AAC was formed in Delta state to promote integrity, fairness, inclusiveness, and sustainable development across Delta state.

    “Our mission is to return power to the people. Governance must be transparent, responsive, and focused on improving the lives of ordinary Deltans. Delta State deserves leadership that listens and delivers,” Mr. Agabi said.

    Read Also: Individuals must file tax returns by March 31, employers, January 31 – Oyedele

    The party outlined its major focus areas to include job creation and youth empowerment, free education to tertiary level, free healthcare for all, agricultural and industrial development, security and community safety, infrastructure and rural development and support for small and medium-sized businesses.

    The party reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful political participation, respect for democratic values, and the rule of law. The party also pledged to work closely with traditional rulers, community leaders, women groups, youth associations, professionals, and civil society organisations to promote inclusive governance.

    The leadership called on all Deltans—farmers, traders, students, artisans, civil servants, entrepreneurs, and professionals—to join the party and contribute to building a prosperous and united state.

    “This is not just a political party; it is a movement for positive change. Together, we can build a Delta state where opportunities are available to all and where leadership truly serves the people,” the statement added.

    Membership registration and awareness campaigns will commence across all local government areas in the coming weeks.

  • SON partners Niger state to boost women empowerment programmes

    SON partners Niger state to boost women empowerment programmes

    The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has announced a new collaboration with the office of the First Lady of Niger State, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, aimed at fostering economic inclusion, enterprise development, and community resilience within the state.

    The announcement was made during a courtesy visit to Her Excellency by the SON’s Director-General, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, who was represented by the Niger State Office 1, Minna Coordinator, Mrs. Hauwa Nuhu Yusufu.

    The visit, which took place in Minna, the state capital, sought to convey goodwill, express condolences over recent security challenges in the state, and explored avenues for joint efforts in advancing women’s empowerment initiatives championed by the First Lady.

    Highlighting SON’s mandate to support local industries, Mrs. Yusufu outlined the organisation’s ongoing Entrepreneurship Support Programme, which has seen over 300 products certified under the MANCAP and PIS schemes, opening doors to both local and international markets.

    Read Also: Brains behind alleged coup know the consequences – Defence Minister

    She encouraged entrepreneurs to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) opportunities, underscoring the importance of standardisation in sustaining both developmental and humanitarian projects.

    “Standardisation is key to ensuring that regulatory activities thrive, which in turn, will help to sustain the impact of the First Lady’s empowerment programmes,” Mrs. Yusufu remarked.

    The SON delegation also presented a Letter of Appreciation to the First Lady for her attendance at the recent official opening of the SON Niger State Office, alongside copies of the SON Act 2015 and other organisational publications.

    Responding, Hajiya  Bago expressed gratitude for the visit and praised SON’s efforts in improving its operations within the state.

    She reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with the organisation to enhance the livelihoods of women and local communities through sustained collaboration.

    The delegation was warmly received by Her Excellency, alongside several senior state officials, including the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta, and the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ladidi Bawa Bosso.

    This partnership promises to further strengthen the state’s efforts to empower women, improve local businesses, and boost economic resilience.

  • Mama Abike Ogunruku to be buried February 6

    Mama Abike Ogunruku to be buried February 6

    The remains of Chief (Mrs) Beatrice Folaranmi Abike Ogunruku, a respected matriarch of the Ogunruku and Coker families of Ido-Ekiti, will be laid to rest on Friday, February 6, 2026.

    Chief (Mrs) Ogunruku, fondly known as Mama Abike, passed on to glory on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 93.

    She was celebrated for a life of service and devotion as a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

    According to the funeral programme released by the Ogunruku and Coker families, burial activities will commence on Thursday, February 5, 2026, with a commendation service scheduled for 9:00 a.m. at the Chapel of Faith, Federal University of Technology, Akure.

    Read Also: Brains behind alleged coup know the consequences – Defence Minister

    This will be followed by a lying-in-state at 12 noon at the Ogunruku Compound, located at 7, Orire Street, Ido-Ekiti.

    Later that same day, a Service of Songs and Christian Wake will be held at 5.00 p.m. at the Ogunruku Compound.

    The final funeral service will take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 10.00 a.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church, Ido-Ekiti. A reception for guests will follow at the Event Ground before the Ora/Orin Junction, Ido-Ekiti.

    Mama is survived by many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren including Dr Ayo Ogunruku, a former Registrar at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Mr Owolabi Ogunruku, Mr Olubayo Ogunruku, Mr Gboladele Ogunruku, Mrs Olufunke Ojo and Mr Tunde Ogunruku.

  • College awards certificates to 5,922 graduands at 8th convocation

    College awards certificates to 5,922 graduands at 8th convocation

    After years of waiting, a total of 5,922 graduands of the Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, received their certificates on Saturday, as the institution held its 8th Convocation Ceremony.

    The convocation brought together graduates from 2017 to 2025.

    Noting that many of the graduands had waited several years to formally receive their certificates, the Provost of the college, Dr. (Mrs.) Odiete Eravweroso Congrat said: “This convocation represents closure, restoration, and the fulfilment of a long-awaited academic right.”

    She disclosed that the convocation covered graduates over an eight-year period, stressing that the delay had not diminished their achievement.

     “Delay is not denial. You are graduating at a time when Nigeria needs competent, ethical, and compassionate health professionals more than ever,” she told the graduands.

    Dr. Odiete thanked the Delta State Government for its support, while urging the graduates to uphold professionalism, discipline and compassion, adding that “while certificates qualify you to practice, character will ultimately determine your impact.”

    Representing the Governor and Visitor to the institution, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, congratulated the graduands and encouraged them to pursue further studies.

    Read Also: Individuals must file tax returns by March 31, employers, January 31 – Oyedele

    He also commended the management for organising convocation after a long interval and conveyed the governor’s goodwill to the college.

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Dr. Chris Oharisi, described the event as a celebration of perseverance and purpose.

    “As graduates of this institution, you are stepping into a world that urgently needs your competence, integrity, and humanity,” he said.

    Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards to best graduating students, conferment of Honorary Fellowship and Distinguished Personality Awards, and the award of certificates, National Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas to the graduands.

  • ‘Digital literacy bridges economic, social gaps’

    ‘Digital literacy bridges economic, social gaps’

    In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, a digital marketing consultant, Daniel Ibikunle, said that digital literacy is no longer an optional skill but a fundamental necessity for closing the widening economic and social divides in Nigeria.

    He argues that democratising access to tech knowledge is the most effective way to ensure inclusive national growth.

    He said: “Digital literacy isn’t just a skill; it’s a necessity. My goal is to ensure that people, regardless of background or physical limitations, can participate meaningfully in a tech-driven economy.”

    He noted that his mission is rooted in personal adversity. After being forced to withdraw from Yaba College of Technology due to financial constraints, Ibikunle pivoted to Lagos State Polytechnic.

    Read Also: PDP BoT, caretaker factional chairman moves to end crisis

    He said it was there he discovered the transformative potential of the digital economy, eventually building a career defined by self-learning and high-impact consultancy.

    The consultant has trained over 2,500 in digital marketing, online monetisation, social media advertising, search engine optimisation, content strategy, and emerging fields like artificial intelligence prompt engineering.

    He said his approach emphasises hands-on learning and real-world application, equipping participants with skills relevant to Nigeria’s evolving digital economy.

    Beyond individual training, he has designed high-converting websites and sales pages for clients. Through conversion-focused digital strategies and targeted campaigns, his projects have generated over $15,000 in combined sales revenue, highlighting the commercial value of well-structured digital systems.

  • Banditry: Benue farmers flee ancestral farmlands, seek refuge in IDP camps

    Banditry: Benue farmers flee ancestral farmlands, seek refuge in IDP camps

    Food security has come under severe threats in some Benue communities, a region widely regarded as the food basket of Nigeria, due to renewed attacks on farmers by bandits.

    The Sankera geo-political bloc, comprising Ukum, Logo, and Katsina Ala local government areas in Benue North East Senatorial Zone, has been the epicenter of these attacks.

    Armed bandits have carried out numerous deadly attacks, killing hapless peasant farmers, destroying crops, and setting houses ablaze.

    In January 2026 alone, there were about 25 attacks in  Ukum, Logo, and Katsina Ala local government areas, predominantly affecting farmers.

    The attacks have affected preparations for the new farming season, leaving farmers in perpetual fear and forcing them to flee their ancestral farmland to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps.

    There are fears that if the insecurity in the area is not contained, it will negatively impact food production, affecting not only Benue State but the entire nation.

    Farmers, who are mostly able-bodied young men and women, are now idle in IDP camps while their farmlands lie fallow. Children who should be in school are also living in those camps with their aged parents, leaving the affected areas with no one to engage in farming activities.

    A farmer in Chito, Azendeshi ward, Ukum Local Government Area, Uzenda Hur, warned that if the federal and state governments fail to protect farmers, there would be severe food scarcity in the new year.

    Uzenda Hur stated: “We farmers are supposed to be preparing the soil ahead of the new farming season, which will start with the first rain, but we are still in IDP camps. So, who will do the farming?”

    In Logo Local Government Area, the situation is even worse, especially in Gaambetiev settlements, which are close to River Benue and the farmers engage in all-year farming activities.

    Settlements in Tse Dzungwe, Tse Gbeleve ,Poovule, Anyibe and hundreds of other have been deserted .

    For example, in Tombo Ward, Gaambetiev, Logo Local Government Area, all the farmers in the hinterland have moved to Ayilamo, the ward headquarters, due to attacks by suspected herdsmen who have killed more than 30 persons, mostly farmers between December last year and now.

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    Tersoo Unande, a 55-year-old farmer with two wives and eight children, told our correspondent that suspected herdsmen have taken over their farmlands for more than 10 years.

    Unande said:

    “Since 2026 when herdsmen launched attacks on my settlement in Tse Dzungwe, Mbakorya, Mbaiwem, I have not gone back to my ancestral home.

    I had to look for a safe area for farming, because I have children and a wife to feed.”

    The worst scenario is that heavily armed herdsmen have turned his farm into their settlement, and it seems the security personnel are helpless.

    Unande appreciated the Inspector General of Police’s approval of a divisional police office in Ayilamo, Tombo, and increased police personnel and operational vehicles; a step likely to improve the security situation.

    However, Unande urged the government and security agencies to rework their mode of operation to safeguard farmers,. Otherwise, no one will farm, and there will be no food this year.

    In Katsina Ala Local Government area, the insecurity situation is not getting better either, with a series of attacks taking place since the new year began.

    The Council Chairmen of Katsina Ala and Ukum local governments have been effective in mobilising security personnel to secure their people and communities.

    Hon. Shaku Justice and Hon. Jonathan Modi said they had been able to mobilise soldiers to secure the lives of farmers and rural  communities.

    Hon. Modi stated: “Before now, most of the farmers, especially those on the border, were sacked by suspected armed herdsmen. But as a local government council, we have been able to launch counter-attacks or dialogue with the bandits to recover the settlements.”

    Katsina Ala Local Government Area is also home to large yam-producing communities, including food, and other  crops generally.

    However, renewed attacks and killings have laid waste whatever achievements the Council Chairman might have recorded in the area of security.

    But the local government authorities said they are doing every thing possible to change the situation for better so  that farmers can return to their farming bussiness.

    A traditional ruler, Chief Torbee Najir, told our correspondent that the only solution to the persistent attacks and killing of farmers is to deploy more soldiers to food-producing settlements and establish permanent military barracks and formations.

    Chief Najir warned: “If urgent steps are not taken, one day, the entire nation will sleep hungry because there will be no food to eat.”

    The Chief Press Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, told The Nation that it is the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia that has put an end to the impunity of suspected herdsmen attacks on defenceless Benue farmers.

    Kula said: “Before now, there were series of killings and the armed herdsmen operated with impunity.

    “But Governor Hyacinth Alia, through deliberate partnership with security agencies, has put a stop to wanton destruction of rural settlements and killing of farmers, and will continue to protect every Benue citizen across the 23 local government areas of the state.”

  • 2027: Seyi Makinde at the crossroads

    2027: Seyi Makinde at the crossroads

    Amid defections, internal conflict within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and strained relations with Abuja, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde faces significant challenges in Nigeria’s political landscape, writes Deputy Political Editor Raymond Mordi

    Politically homeless

    On January 22, 2026 (penultimate Thursday), at the Aso Rock Villa, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde met privately with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. After the meeting, reporters asked if Makinde intended to defect, given the recent trend of opposition governors joining the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Makinde responded, “No, I’m comfortable in the PDP,” and emphasised that his visit focused on governance, not party politics. Once a key figure in the G-5 group that influenced the 2023 presidential election, he is now the only opposition governor elected on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) platform in southern Nigeria and is politically isolated within a divided party.

    With the 2027 general election approaching, Makinde faces internal conflict within the PDP, threats to his political relevance, and pressure to secure his developmental legacy in Oyo State. His situation highlights broader challenges in Nigeria’s democracy, where principle often competes with political survival.

    House divided against itself

    Makinde’s isolation is primarily due to internal PDP conflict rather than APC growth. The party, which held 16 states in 2015, now controls only four: Adamawa, Bauchi, Oyo, and Zamfara. This decline has intensified the personal and ideological dispute between Makinde and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.

    The conflict became public in December 2025. In an interview with reporters in Ibadan, Makinde claimed that during a private meeting with President Tinubu, Wike volunteered to “hold the PDP down” for the President’s 2027 re-election. Makinde called this a betrayal of the opposition’s purpose and warned of the risks of a one-party state, stressing the need for bipartisan solutions.

    Wike’s supporters responded by accusing Makinde of disloyalty and self-interest. Lere Olayinka, Wike’s aide, alleged that Makinde has never been loyal to any party or individual and referenced claims that Makinde opposed PDP’s Ademola Adeleke in the 2022 Osun governorship election to maintain his position as the sole PDP governor in the Southwest.

    The dispute escalated into an institutional split when, in November 2025, a Makinde-backed faction held a national convention in Ibadan, expelled Wike from the party, and appointed Taminu Turaki as the new leader of the National Working Committee (NWC). The Wike faction rejected this as an “illegal convention” and maintains a separate structure. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not recognised the Turaki leadership due to ongoing court orders.

    This legal dispute is Makinde’s most immediate challenge. With five court cases pending, including two key appeals, the PDP’s ability to field candidates in 2027 is at risk. INEC has already rejected the Makinde-backed candidate for the June 2026 Ekiti governorship election, setting a concerning precedent for future national elections.

    A senior official in the Turaki-led NWC acknowledged the seriousness of the situation: “With what INEC has done… our chances of having candidates for the 2027 general election are very slim.” As a result, factions are considering contingency plans, and the Makinde bloc is reportedly exploring an alliance with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to support its candidates.

    Read Also: Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    Calculus of defection

    In this environment, many view Makinde’s refusal to defect as unusual. Since 2025, several PDP governors, including Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), have joined the APC. Motivations include access to federal resources, electoral security, and concerns about the PDP’s decline. The APC now has 29 governors, and Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule has predicted more defections.

    Makinde is now one of only two governors in the Southwest not affiliated with the APC (Osun’s Adeleke has joined the Accord Party). Critics, including former minister Adebayo Shittu, have called him an “ingrate,” claiming his 2023 alignment with Tinubu helped secure his (Makinde’s) re-election. The recent meeting with Tinubu has increased speculation about his political future.

    Makinde frames his position as a commitment to democratic principles, emphasizing the importance of a strong opposition in Nigeria.

     Osun-based activist Comrade Waheed Saka notes that widespread defections to the APC could have long-term adverse effects, describing Makinde’s choice as risky but principled, while acknowledging the PDP’s current weakness.

    Makinde’s decision also reflects strategic considerations. Joining an APC that has seen many recent southern defections could reduce his influence. By remaining in the opposition, he maintains a distinct political identity, which could benefit him if the PDP recovers or if he seeks a national role grounded in principle.

    From rising star to political limbo

    Before the PDP’s current crisis, Makinde was widely regarded as a rising star in Nigerian politics. Alongside Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, he was seen as part of a new generation of governors with technocratic leanings and national ambition.

    That trajectory has since stalled. Uzodimma operates comfortably within the ruling APC. AbdulRazaq has consolidated his regional influence. Makinde, by contrast, appears stranded between a ruling party that does not trust him and an opposition party that cannot organise itself.

    “Once his colleagues began defecting, his bargaining power collapsed,” said a former PDP National Assembly member. “Politics is about blocs. Makinde now leads a bloc of one.”

    Performance versus politics

    In Oyo State, Makinde is focused on delivering results before his tenure ends in 2027. His performance will be evaluated on both political actions and tangible achievements, though some controversies remain.

    At the state’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, Makinde presented a long-term vision focused on economic growth, job creation, and institutional development. He cited his experience with Chief Bola Ige’s free education policy as an influence. His administration’s ‘Omituntun 2.0’ initiative highlights achievements, including the completion of an 11 MW Independent Power Project and securing a $100 million investment in a gas pipeline.

    Key governance achievements

    · Infrastructure development: Completion of phases of the 110 km Ibadan Circular Road, a long-envisioned project to decongest the city.

    · Human capital & welfare: Early implementation of improved salary structures for workers ahead of federal directives.

    · Economic foundations: Commissioning of a gas master plan and attracting private investment into energy infrastructure.

    · Institutional focus: Passage of an Electricity Regulation Commission Bill to create a sub-national electricity market.

    Comrade Saka offers a positive assessment, stating that Makinde has performed well in infrastructure development compared to other governors. “Fundamentally, when you talk about development, Makinde has done well in terms of infrastructure,” he said. “The circular road is a testament to his long-term vision. He has also excelled in human capital development and workers’ remuneration. Even before the Federal Government announced an increase in salaries, he had already committed to paying Oyo workers more.”

    However, he cautions that the state’s financial health will only be clear after Makinde’s tenure ends.

    This caution relates to ongoing allegations affecting Makinde’s legacy. Former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose has accused Makinde of mismanaging N50 billion in federal relief funds for the 2024 Bodija explosion, a claim Makinde denies, stating only N30 billion was released and properly used. Although unproven, such allegations can affect the reputation of outgoing governors.

    2027 endgame

    With the PDP in disarray, Makinde’s influence is diminishing. His ability to shape succession in Oyo State is at risk. Although he pledged to name a preferred successor by January 2026, he has not done so, mainly due to the party’s instability. Without a functional party structure, selecting a successor is ineffective.

    Makinde’s national ambitions are also limited. Once considered a potential presidential candidate, that opportunity is now closed. His regret over supporting Tinubu in 2023 and his decision not to repeat this have strained relations with the presidency. Within the PDP, his faction remains one side of a deep internal conflict.

    Makinde’s grim scenarios for 2027

    · The PDP fails to resolve its legal issues, INEC does not recognize its candidates, and the party cannot contest effectively in Oyo or nationally. Makinde could become a governor without party support, losing political influence.

    · His bloc formalises an alliance with the ADC or another party. This would allow candidates to contest but would require Makinde to negotiate from a weaker position within a new coalition.

    · A last-minute reconciliation between the Wike and Makinde factions. Even if achieved, trust would remain low, the party’s reputation would be damaged, and Makinde would need to share power with former rivals.

    In Nigeria, outgoing governors often maintain influence by supporting loyal successors. Makinde risks losing political relevance after leaving office. The “strong institutions” he prioritises over “physical infrastructure” have not provided the expected support.

    High cost of standing alone

    Governor Seyi Makinde’s situation reflects broader issues in Nigeria’s democracy. It underscores the lack of clear ideology, the use of parties for personal ambition, and the vulnerability of institutions to legal and personal conflicts. These challenges often distract from effective governance.

    Makinde aims to uphold the principle of strong opposition, even as his party struggles with internal division. In Oyo, he may be remembered for his development achievements. In contrast, nationally, he could be remembered as the last opposition governor to warn against a one-party system, but he was unable to prevent it.

    As 2027 approaches, Seyi Makinde is fighting for both his political future and a vision of Nigerian democracy. The outcome will depend on developments in the coming months. The primary concern is that ongoing political struggles may divert attention from the development work he has promoted. His ultimate challenge will be to ensure his legacy endures despite current political uncertainty.