Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has cautioned that a weakened opposition could pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic system, urging political parties to strengthen collaboration and remain active in national discourse.
Makinde made the remarks on Saturday during an opposition leaders’ summit held in Ibadan, which brought together stakeholders from the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress (ADC), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and other political groups.
The meeting, hosted at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, was organised to encourage better coordination among opposition parties amid growing national concerns over governance, security, and economic challenges.
According to Makinde, the gathering was not intended to deepen political divisions but to encourage responsible engagement that supports democratic stability.
He said, “If we allow the opposition to weaken, whether by design or by neglect, then all of us will bear the consequences. This is not a movement for fragmentation, violence, or disengagement from politics.”
The governor stressed that the objective was to foster unity of purpose among opposition parties, adding that healthy political competition remains essential for accountability in governance.
“It is a movement to think clearly, speak honestly, and act with a sense of responsibility that goes beyond party lines,” he said.
Makinde further noted that Nigeria’s current challenges require sustained dialogue and cooperation across political divides, warning that indifference could worsen the country’s situation.
“We cannot pretend that the state of our nation does not matter. The responsibility to ensure things do not deteriorate further rests on all of us,” he added.
He welcomed participants to Ibadan and wished them fruitful deliberations, describing the summit theme, “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” as timely and necessary.
