Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has openly stated that he regrets supporting Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, marking one of his strongest public criticisms of the current administration. The declaration has triggered widespread political debate, especially within the Peoples Democratic Party PDP and across the broader Nigerian political space.
Makinde made the statement while speaking on national political developments and internal party disagreements. According to the governor, his decision to support Tinubu at the time was based on political calculations and expectations that have not been met. He explained that events since the inauguration of the Tinubu administration have forced him to reassess that choice, leading to what he described as deep personal and political regret.
The Oyo governor was one of the prominent PDP governors who worked against the party’s presidential candidate in 2023 under the G5 group, also known as the Integrity Group. The group argued that the PDP leadership failed to respect internal zoning arrangements and fairness. At the time, Makinde and others believed supporting Tinubu was a strategic move that would protect democratic balance and regional equity.
However, Makinde now says that reality has proven otherwise. He expressed concern that Nigeria is drifting toward a system where political pluralism is being weakened. He warned that unchecked dominance by one political tendency could undermine democratic institutions and silence opposition voices.
Makinde stressed that democracy thrives on strong opposition, transparent governance and respect for institutional boundaries. He said recent political developments have raised alarms about interference in party affairs and the erosion of democratic competition. According to him, Nigeria must avoid becoming a one party dominated system where dissenting voices are marginalized.
The governor also clarified that his regret is not driven by personal grievances but by national interest. He said leaders must be honest enough to admit when political decisions turn out to be wrong. In his view, loyalty to Nigeria must come before loyalty to any individual or political arrangement.
Makinde emphasized that his support in 2023 was never unconditional. He said there was no formal agreement or political pact that bound him to continue supporting the current administration. He added that democracy gives every citizen the right to change positions based on performance and evolving realities.
Political analysts say Makinde’s statement is significant because of his influence within the PDP and among southern governors. As one of the few opposition governors with strong electoral credibility, his views are seen as reflective of growing discontent within political circles that initially aligned with the ruling party.
Reactions to Makinde’s statement have been mixed. Supporters argue that he has demonstrated political courage by admitting regret rather than remaining silent. They say his position reinforces the importance of accountability in leadership and political honesty. Critics however accuse him of opportunism and inconsistency, questioning why such regret is being expressed now.
Within the PDP, Makinde’s remarks are expected to reignite debates about the party’s future direction and unity ahead of the 2027 elections. Party insiders believe the statement could encourage reconciliation among aggrieved factions and strengthen the resolve to rebuild the party as a viable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress APC.
Makinde reiterated his commitment to strengthening the PDP and ensuring it remains a competitive platform capable of offering Nigerians credible leadership options. He said opposition parties have a responsibility to defend democracy, challenge bad policies and present clear alternatives rather than act as silent observers.
He also cautioned against the use of state power to influence political outcomes, saying such practices weaken trust in governance and deepen public frustration. According to him, Nigeria’s economic and security challenges require inclusive leadership and constructive political competition, not intimidation or coercion.
The governor concluded by stating that political leaders must be judged by outcomes, not promises. He said Nigerians deserve transparency, fairness and policies that directly improve living standards. Where these expectations are not met, leaders must be ready to speak up, even if it means admitting past mistakes.
As Nigeria moves toward another electoral cycle, Makinde’s remarks are likely to shape political conversations both within and outside the PDP. His public regret underscores a shifting political mood and raises questions about alliances formed in 2023 and how they may evolve ahead of 2027.
