Ibadan Summit Not Targeted at Any Individual — Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has clarified that the recent gathering of opposition leaders in Ibadan was not directed at any individual but aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders held at the Government House, Makinde said the meeting was designed to reinforce democratic values and promote a competitive political environment. He dismissed claims that the summit was a coordinated move against President Bola Tinubu or driven by personal presidential ambitions, stressing that its focus was the broader national interest.

“Let me be clear: this meeting is not a gang-up against one man, nor is it about individual ambitions to be president. It is about the collective aspiration of Nigerians to define and deepen their democracy,” he said.

Makinde explained that deliberations at the summit centred on preserving Nigeria’s multi-party system and averting any slide toward a one-party state, warning that such a shift could erode accountability and transparency in governance.

“This is about something more fundamental  the survival of a system that keeps Nigeria open, competitive, and accountable. Democracy without opposition is not democracy; it is a gradual drift toward a one-party state, and Nigeria must avoid that path,” he added.

The governor underscored the importance of a vibrant opposition in sustaining democratic governance, noting that weakening opposition voices whether intentional or incidental could have far-reaching consequences.

“No matter how dominant a party may become or how popular a government appears, credible opposition is not a threat; it is the lifeblood of democracy. If opposition weakens, we all bear the consequences,” he said.

The summit brought together prominent political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, and is widely viewed as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.