‘Stop Trying To Shut Out The Opposition, Win Fair And Square If You Can’, Makinde Tells Tinubu

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on President Bola Tinubu to desist from actions that could weaken Nigeria’s democratic institutions, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of moves to sideline opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Makinde made the appeal while reacting to the court judgment nullifying the David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a development that has raised concerns over the party’s future and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s 2027 presidential ambition.

The governor cautioned the Tinubu administration against compromising the country’s democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing that political administrations would change but Nigeria would endure.

“I want to appeal to President Bola Tinubu. 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,” Makinde said.

He stressed the need for INEC to maintain its independence and carry out its constitutional responsibility of organising free, fair and credible elections without political interference.

Makinde also maintained that opposition parties and their candidates should be given equal opportunities to participate in elections, urging the ruling party to seek victory through legitimate electoral competition rather than weakening its political rivals.

“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,” he said.

The governor reiterated his concerns about the possible consequences of interfering with democratic institutions, insisting that the judiciary and electoral commission must be allowed to perform their duties independently.

“We should not destroy our institutions, be it the judiciary, be it the INEC that is supposed to be independent, saddled with the responsibility of conducting free and fair elections,” he said.

“They must stop trying to shut out the opposition. If you can win, win fair and square in the field,” the governor added.

Beyond the political concerns, Makinde urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country despite the economic, political and social difficulties confronting the nation.

He acknowledged the challenges facing citizens but expressed confidence that they could be addressed through collective efforts and commitment to national development.

“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,” Makinde said.

“So, please, try your best, do your own bit, and tomorrow, Nigeria will be a better place to live in,” he added.