Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has taken a not-so-subtle jab at Abdullahi Ganduje, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for his audacious claim that the APC would capture both Osun and Oyo states. According to Makinde, Ganduje might have been “a bit distracted” when making that bold but evidently misplaced prediction.
What They Are saying
Makinde, speaking while commissioning projects executed by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, wasted no time delivering a masterclass in political shade. He suggested that the people of Osun, having basked in the light of Adeleke’s governance, would ensure the APC gets a full serving of “pepper” in the next election. The Oyo governor pointed out that Adeleke has been a trailblazer in delivering democratic dividends to Osun.
In a statement by his media aide, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde praised Adeleke for completing projects inherited from previous administrations, a rarity in Nigeria’s political sector where abandoned projects are almost a tradition. “This is about ensuring the people get value for their money,” Makinde quipped, taking a jab at leaders who squander resources and leave citizens in perpetual economic despair.
Makinde’s comments weren’t just a celebration of Adeleke’s work but a critique of politicians who rely on propaganda rather than tangible achievements. “This is not about using NBS data to mask lies,” he stated, referring to the National Bureau of Statistics often used by governments to push questionable narratives. He noted how Adeleke’s visible projects, like the numerous buildings he counted during his drive, speak volumes about genuine governance.
And then came the Ganduje: “Somebody got distracted after the Edo and Ondo elections and claimed they would take Osun and Oyo. Are my people not waiting for them?” Makinde asked rhetorically, his voice soaked with sarcasm. He emphasized that Oyo and Osun voters are resolute and law-abiding but will not hesitate to expose the secrets APC would prefer to keep buried.
Makinde didn’t hold back in applauding Adeleke’s innovative approach to leadership. “I can’t stop thanking Governor Adeleke for breaking out of the mold of the usual politicians,” he said, highlighting how Adeleke has focused on impactful projects like a 250-kilometer light-up initiative, which he contrasted with Oyo’s phased 20 to 60 kilometers. “Quite frankly, light has come to Osun State,” he remarked, urging residents to “stick with Imole” (Adeleke’s nickname) and avoid a return to the “darkness” of previous administrations.
Why It Matters
Beyond the applause, Makinde took the opportunity to hammer home his views on the country’s failing federalism, which he described as “discouraging.” He criticized those claiming to support true federalism while driving Nigeria deeper into a unitary system. In his words, “For us in the South-West, my brother and I are the real progressives.” He pledged continued collaboration with Adeleke to ensure pro-people policies remain the standard.
On his part, Governor Adeleke lauded Makinde’s presence, calling it a testament to the bond between Osun and Oyo states. Adeleke echoed Makinde’s philosophy of putting people first, completing inherited projects, and ensuring taxpayers’ money translates to value.
In a swipe at past leaders, Makinde pointed out the absurdity of abandoning projects started by a predecessor, especially from another party. “Nigeria has become too advanced for mediocres and shallow thinkers,” he said, highlighting Adeleke’s decision to complete a road project initiated by former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Makinde urged Osun voters to give Adeleke another four years, asserting that both he and Adeleke represent a new breed of leaders focused on progress rather than partisan pettiness. “This road was started by Aregbesola but completed by Adeleke. That’s leadership,” Makinde declared, adding that the days of neglecting the people in favor of political ego are over.
Bottom Line
It’s clear that Makinde’s message was not just a celebration of Adeleke but a rallying cry against the APC’s grand ambitions in the South-West. As far as Makinde is concerned, the “real progressives” are already on the job, and the APC’s dream of capturing Osun and Oyo is nothing more than a distraction.
