Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said that it has become increasingly difficult to speak truth to power under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, contrasting the current political climate with what he described as a more consultative leadership approach in previous administrations.
Makinde made the remarks on Saturday at a public function in Ibadan, where he reflected on governance under former President Muhammadu Buhari and the role played by then Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo. According to the governor, Osinbajo’s leadership style encouraged open dialogue and constructive engagement, a quality he said is currently lacking.
The Oyo State governor also criticised the Tinubu administration over its handling of the ongoing tax reform bills, describing the process as opaque and dismissive of stakeholder input. He noted that state governors had raised concerns and called for broader consultations before the bills were transmitted to the National Assembly, but their appeals were allegedly ignored.
“You cannot speak truth to power in this dispensation,” Makinde said. “When the tax bill came up, we asked that it be withdrawn so all stakeholders could examine it dispassionately. Instead, we were told it would proceed regardless.”
He further expressed concern that governors were left in the dark about the final content of the legislation, stating that neither the outcome of the National Assembly’s deliberations nor the specific provisions signed into law were clearly communicated.
Makinde described the situation as an affront to democratic governance, stressing that meaningful consultation is essential for policies with far-reaching economic and social implications. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, whom Makinde said he deeply missed for his inclusive and consultative leadership style.
