Oyo APC Labels Governor Makinde a Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has issued a stern warning, describing Governor Seyi Makinde as a rising threat to Nigeria’s democratic principles. The party urged citizens to remain vigilant, citing concerns over the governor’s recent actions and policies.

According to a statement released by Olawale Sadare, the APC’s State Publicity Secretary, Governor Makinde has allegedly engaged in practices that undermine the rule of law and the foundations of constitutional democracy. The party accused Makinde of attempting to transform Oyo State into his personal stronghold.

Sadare highlighted several instances where Governor Makinde has openly criticized the federal government, including issues surrounding the removal of fuel subsidies, financial autonomy for local governments, and the #EndBadGovernance protests. The governor’s stance on the contentious N570 billion Economic Stimulus distributed to states was also noted as part of his recent criticisms.

The APC also raised concerns about rumors of Makinde’s potential presidential ambitions for the 2027 general elections, calling them a distraction and a misuse of the state’s resources. “In the last 62 months, various sectors in Oyo State have experienced significant setbacks under Governor Makinde’s administration,” Sadare claimed.

The statement further accused the governor of dismissing elected local government officials on his first day in office, an action perceived as an effort to undermine the third tier of government in the state. Additionally, Sadare criticized Makinde for allegedly ensuring that the state House of Assembly remains under his control and disregarding advice from respected leaders in the state.

The APC’s statement also pointed to what it described as the governor’s interference in traditional institutions across the state, citing changes in the chieftaincy succession arrangements in towns such as Eruwa, Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Igangan, and Iseyin. This interference, the party claimed, has led to crises in several communities.

In particular, the APC accused Governor Makinde of attempting to manipulate the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by preventing it from investigating a controversial contract for school exercise books, while simultaneously pressuring the EFCC to prosecute high chiefs involved in the Alaafin of Oyo succession.

The party expressed concern over Governor Makinde’s consistent opposition to federal government policies, suggesting that his actions are driven by a desire to undermine federal efforts to alleviate the suffering of the people, including those in Oyo State.

The APC praised the Tinubu administration’s move to grant financial autonomy to local government councils, describing it as a significant positive development for the country. The party warned that any attempt by Governor Makinde and his allies to challenge this decision would be unsuccessful.

Finally, the APC called on Governor Makinde’s administration to provide an account of the 1,419 metric tonnes of grains and 20 trucks of rice received from the federal government, intended for distribution to the state’s citizens. The party alleged that these relief materials have yet to reach their intended beneficiaries.