Politics
Democracy in the Crosshairs: How Nigeria’s Ruling APC Weaponises Power and Silences Dissent
Democracy in the Crosshairs: How Nigeria’s Ruling APC Weaponises Power and Silences Dissent.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“Tinubu’s Government, the EFCC and the Strategic Undermining of Opposition Governors”.
In a striking indictment of Nigeria’s current political reality, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State declared that “you cannot speak truth to power in this dispensation”, directly accusing the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of intolerance for dissent and an erosion of democratic norms.
Makinde’s remarks (made during a public event in Ibadan on January 25, 2026) were more than a local governor’s lament. They crystallised a mounting national frustration: that Nigeria’s political landscape has tilted dangerously toward executive overreach, institutional capture and political engineering.
This narrative is not isolated. Across Nigeria, governors from opposition parties have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in numbers unprecedented in the nation’s democratic history. Critics argue that these defections are not merely voluntary political choices, but part of a strategic pressure campaign leveraging federal power and institutions to fracture opposition influence.
At its centre lies Nigeria’s principal anti-graft agency – the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC: Anti-Graft Agency or Political Instrument? Founded to combat corruption, the EFCC’s constitutional mandate is to investigate and prosecute financial and economic crimes across public and private sectors. Its legal independence is enshrined in statute and it has historically pursued high-profile cases, including recovery of nearly $500 million in illicit assets in a single year, demonstrating its capacity for tackling corruption.
However, critics now claim that under the Tinubu administration, the EFCC’s prosecutorial power is being perceived (if not deployed) as a political instrument.
Opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and coalition parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have publicly accused the federal government of using anti-corruption agencies to intimidate opposition figures and governors, effectively pressuring them into aligning with the APC.
In a statement released in December 2025, opposition figures alleged that institutions such as the EFCC, the Nigerian Police and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission were being selectively wielded to weaken political competitors rather than combat financial crime impartially.
This is not merely rhetorical noise. The opposition’s grievances centre on several observable patterns:
Reopened or New Investigations Against Opposition Figures: The ADC pointed to recent abnormal reactivation of long-dormant cases or new inquiries into financial activities involving senior opposition politicians. These, they argue, often arise shortly before critical elections or political realignments.
Alleged Differential Treatment: According to opponents of the current administration, individuals who have defected to the APC appear less likely to face sustained legal scrutiny or prosecution in EFCC proceedings, even in cases of credible allegations of mismanagement.
Timing of Actions: The timing of certain high-profile investigations, emerging ahead of the 2027 general elections, reinforces perceptions that anti-graft measures are tailored to political cycles rather than legal merit.
The EFCC and Presidency have publicly denied these allegations, insisting that the commission operates independently and pursues corruption irrespective of political affiliation and that Nigeria’s democratic freedoms (including party choice and mobility) remain intact.
Yet the perception of bias, once systemic, is hard to erase, especially when political actors deploy powerful state machinery with strategic timing and selective intensity.
Defections and Power Realignment: A Democracy at Risk? Since 2023 and particularly through 2025, a remarkable number of state governors and senior political leaders have crossed over from opposition parties (notably the Peoples Democratic Party – PDP) to the APC. Though defections are normal in Nigeria’s fluid political system, the scale and speed in recent years are historically noteworthy, raising critical questions about underlying incentives.
The SaharaWeeklyNG reported Makinde’s comments within the broader context of a political climate where dissenting voices face greater obstacles than at any time in recent democratic memory.
Governors who remain in opposition find themselves squeezed between growing federal assertiveness and dwindling political capital. Some analysts argue that the combination of federal resource control, political appointments and influence over public agencies exerts tangible pressure on subnational leaders to align with the ruling party for political survival. This dynamic, they contend, undermines competitive party politics and weakens Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
Speaking Truth to Power: What Makinde’s Critique Exposes. Governor Makinde’s core grievance (that it is increasingly difficult, perhaps perilous, to speak truth to power) resonates widely among civil society actors, political analysts and democratic advocates:
“YOU CANNOT SPEAK TRUTH TO POWER IN THIS DISPENSATION,” Makinde declared, specifically citing the government’s handling of contentious tax reform bills as an example where dissent was neither welcomed nor transparently debated.
Makinde’s critique reflects deeper structural concerns:
Exclusion of Key Stakeholders: Opposition leaders and state executives report being marginalised from meaningful consultation on national policies affecting federal-state relations, revenue sharing and fiscal reforms.
Institutional Intimidation: The perception that state politicians become targets of federal legal scrutiny after taking firm oppositional stances (real or perceived) discourages robust democratic debate.
Erosion of Opposition Space: A symbiotic effect of party defections and institutional pressure is a shrinking viable space for genuine political opposition, weakening checks and balances essential to democratic governance.
A respected political scientist, Dr. Aisha Bello of the University of Lagos, recently argued that “when opposition becomes fraught with state leverage instead of ideological competition, the very foundation of democratic contestation collapses,” adding that “a government that shies away from criticism risks inversion into autocracy.”
Another expert, Prof. Chinedu Eze, former dean of political studies at Ahmadu Bello University, warned that “selective use of anti-corruption agencies as political tools corrodes public trust and ultimately delegates justice into the hands of incumbents rather than independent courts.” These observations echo growing public skepticism.
The Way Forward: Strengthening Democracy and Institutions. Nigeria’s path forward depends on restoring confidence in democratic norms and institutional independence.
Transparent EFCC Processes: Civil society groups and legal scholars are advocating for enhanced transparency in anti-graft investigations, including clear prosecutorial thresholds and independent audits of case initiation and closures.
Judicial Oversight: Strengthening the judiciary’s capacity and independence is critical to ensuring that allegations of political weaponisation do not go unchecked. Courts must remain the ultimate arbiters of evidence and guilt.
Political Reforms: Advocates demand reforms to party financing, federal-state fiscal relations, and consultation mechanisms to reduce incentives for defections driven by federal resource leverage.
Public Engagement: A more informed and engaged civil society, anchored by independent media and civic education, must hold both government and opposition accountable for adherence to democratic principles.
Beyond The Present Moment.
Governor Makinde’s assertion that it is no longer tenable to “speak truth to power” under the current administration reflects unsettling trends in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape. While the EFCC and the Presidency maintain that anti-corruption efforts are independent and constitutionally grounded, opposition leaders (backed by political data and patterns of defections) argue that state power is being used to consolidate one-party dominance and undermine political pluralism.
At this critical juncture, Nigeria must choose between entrenching competitive democracy or sliding toward a political monopoly where dissent is subdued, institutions compromised, and power concentrated.
For Nigeria’s democratic ideals to survive (and thrive) its leaders and citizens must ensure that speaking truth to power remains not a perilous act of defiance but an honoured pillar of national life.
OGUN VISIONARIES READY TO HOLD SECOND EDITION OF TOWN HALL MEETING IN IJEBU ODE
As part of its commitment to participatory democracy, Ogun Visionaries for Yayi has announced plans to hold the second edition of its Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, 12th February, at RONTEX Hall Events Centre, opposite the Old Burial Ground, Ibadan Road, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The event is scheduled to commence at 11:00 a.m.
This was disclosed in a press release signed by Hon. Monsur Oloyede, Chairman of the Planning Committee, who assured that the programme would be one of the best town hall engagements organised by the group.
According to him, the town hall meeting is aimed at bringing together the people of Ogun State—particularly stakeholders from Ogun West—to further enlighten and mobilise support for the 2027 gubernatorial ambition of Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi).
The Honourable Minister of Health, Dr. Adekunle Isiaq Salako, will serve as Chairman of the Occasion, while Dr. Fatimat Oluwakemi Binta Shoge will be the Chair person
The. Mother of the Day is Otunba Dr. Aderonke Kolade Cairo, the Eeta Iyalode Bobakeye Obinrin Akileand Grand Matron of Ogun Visionaries.
The Keynote Address will be delivered by Rt. Hon. Tunji Egbetokun, former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, while Hon. Onadeko Onanusi, former Member of the House of Assembly, will serve as Guest Speaker.
The Royal Fathers of the Day are:
Oba Adedotun Odunneye Odusanya, JP, Osijiya II, Olu of Odonselu, Alaro Kingdom, Ijebu and Oba Kazeem Adesina Salami, Ilufẹmiloba I, Osobia, Paramount Ruler of Makun-Omi.
Dr. Niyi Osoba will also feature as Speaker of the Day.Chief Segun Ojolowo Ojuko
The Ogboye of Ota Aworiland
Fmr SSA on housing to Ogun State also will deliever speech that day
Discussants for the programme include Hon. Tola Banjo, Olootu Bolaji Adeniji, and Princess Florence Feyikemi, while Chief Ajiroba Dapo Oke, Register Tai Solarin federal University of education Ijagun, will serve as Chief Reviewer/Rapporteur
The Director-General of Ogun Visionaries for Yayi, Hon. Odunleye Odunjo, will be the Chief Host of the event.
Trump’s Recognition of Remi Tinubu at U.S. National Prayer Breakfast
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Soft Power on a Global Stage: The Symbolism Behind Trump’s Acknowledgment of Oluremi Tinubu in Washington.”
In the often-ceremonial but politically symbolic arena of international diplomacy, moments of public recognition can carry deeper meaning than their brief appearances suggest. Such was the case at the 74th U.S. National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., where United States President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her as a “very respected woman” and highlighting her role as a Christian pastor. The brief recognition, delivered before a global audience of political and religious leaders, has since generated attention in diplomatic and media circles. It was more than a passing courtesy; it represented a convergence of religion, diplomacy and global optics at a time when the relationship between Washington and Abuja is being redefined by security concerns, religious freedom debates and geopolitical interests.
The Moment in Washington. During his remarks at the annual gathering, President Trump paused to draw attention to the Nigerian First Lady seated among the guests. He said: “We are honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, a very respected woman.” The audience responded with applause as the American president acknowledged her presence, noting her pastoral role in one of Nigeria’s largest Christian denominations. The National Prayer Breakfast, held each February in Washington, is a longstanding tradition that brings together U.S. lawmakers, international dignitaries, religious leaders and policymakers for reflection on faith, leadership and public service. For decades, the event has served not only as a spiritual gathering but also as an informal diplomatic forum, where leaders from around the world interact with American officials in a setting removed from the rigid protocols of formal state visits.
Understanding the National Prayer Breakfast.
The U.S. National Prayer Breakfast dates back to the Eisenhower era and has evolved into a major international gathering that blends religion and politics. It is attended annually by members of Congress, presidents, diplomats and religious leaders from various nations. Political scientist Samuel Huntington once observed that “religion and politics remain the most powerful forces shaping human identity and conflict.” While Huntington’s work focused on civilizations and global conflict, the prayer breakfast represents the softer side of that intersection and religion used as a tool for dialogue, diplomacy and symbolic unity. Similarly, Harvard scholar Joseph Nye, known for his concept of “soft power,” argues that influence in international relations is often achieved through attraction and values rather than coercion. In that sense, events like the National Prayer Breakfast are instruments of soft power, projecting moral leadership and fostering personal relationships among global elites. Mrs. Tinubu’s presence at such an event placed Nigeria within this subtle but influential arena of faith-based diplomacy.
The First Lady’s Religious and Political Profile.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu is not only Nigeria’s First Lady but also a former three-term senator and an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal denominations. Her dual identity as both a political figure and religious leader makes her presence at a faith-based diplomatic event particularly significant. It allowed Nigeria to be represented not just politically but also spiritually, aligning with the event’s core theme of faith in public life. In diplomatic terms, first ladies often play a quiet but influential role in shaping perceptions of their countries abroad. From Eleanor Roosevelt’s human rights advocacy to Michelle Obama’s global education campaigns, the soft-power impact of first ladies has historically been substantial. Mrs. Tinubu’s recognition in Washington fits into this tradition, positioning her as a symbolic ambassador of Nigeria’s religious and cultural identity.
Diplomatic Context: U.S.-Nigeria Relations.
The recognition comes at a time when relations between Nigeria and the United States have been shaped by security cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts and debates over religious freedom. Reports indicate that the event took place against the backdrop of heightened American concern about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria, an issue that has periodically influenced U.S. policy toward the country. At the same time, both nations have deepened security cooperation against extremist groups, reflecting shared strategic interests in combating terrorism across West Africa. In this context, Trump’s public praise of the Nigerian First Lady could be interpreted as both a diplomatic gesture and a signal of continued engagement between the two countries.
Symbolism and Soft Power.
Diplomatic recognition at international gatherings is rarely accidental. Even brief acknowledgments can carry layers of meaning. First, it signals respect and recognition of Nigeria’s leadership. Second, it places Nigeria in a global conversation about faith, governance and moral leadership. Third, it reflects the enduring importance of religion in international relations, especially between nations with strong religious populations. Nigeria, often described as one of the most religious countries in the world, occupies a unique position in global faith politics. With large Christian and Muslim populations, its internal religious dynamics frequently attract international attention. By highlighting the First Lady’s pastoral background, Trump’s remarks implicitly acknowledged Nigeria’s deep religious culture and the role of faith in its public life.
Reactions and Interpretations.
Media reports across Nigeria described the moment as one that placed the First Lady among prominent global faith leaders attending the event.
Some analysts see it as a routine diplomatic courtesy, while others interpret it as a sign of warming relations or a strategic nod to Nigeria’s importance in Africa. Diplomatic scholar Madeleine Albright once wrote that “symbolism is the currency of diplomacy.” In this sense, the recognition of Mrs. Tinubu was not merely a personal compliment but a symbolic gesture toward Nigeria itself.
Religion and Global Politics.
The intersection of religion and politics is not new. From the Vatican’s diplomatic influence to the role of evangelical movements in American foreign policy, faith has long shaped international relations. The National Prayer Breakfast embodies this intersection. It provides a stage where leaders speak the language of faith while engaging in informal diplomacy. For Nigeria, a country where religion deeply influences politics and society, participation in such events reinforces its global religious identity.
The Optics of Leadership.
In international politics, perception often matters as much as policy. Images of leaders being recognized on global stages can shape public opinion and national morale. For supporters of the Tinubu administration, the recognition may be seen as a sign of international respect and acceptance. For critics, it may be viewed as a symbolic gesture with little practical impact on Nigeria’s economic or security challenges. Either way, the moment underscores how international optics continue to play a powerful role in domestic political narratives.
A Moment Beyond Ceremony.
While the National Prayer Breakfast is primarily a spiritual and ceremonial event, it often carries deeper diplomatic implications. Trump’s recognition of the Nigerian First Lady placed Nigeria momentarily at the center of a global stage, reinforcing its presence in conversations about faith, governance and international cooperation. It also highlighted the enduring role of religion as a bridge in international relations, an arena where shared beliefs can foster dialogue even when political differences remain.
Summative: Symbolism, Diplomacy and the Power of Recognition.
In the theatre of global diplomacy, moments of recognition (no matter how brief) can carry enduring symbolic weight. President Trump’s acknowledgment of Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the U.S. National Prayer Breakfast was one such moment: simple in delivery, yet layered in meaning. It reflected the intersection of faith and politics, underscored Nigeria’s place in global religious diplomacy and signaled a gesture of respect between two nations bound by complex ties of security, culture and shared values. Whether viewed as routine courtesy or strategic symbolism, the moment illustrated a fundamental truth of international relations: influence is not always exercised through treaties, sanctions or military power. Sometimes, it is conveyed through words spoken across a room, applause from an audience and the quiet power of recognition. As Joseph Nye reminds us, the most effective power is often the power to attract and inspire. In Washington that morning, Nigeria found itself, however briefly, within that sphere of global attention, proof that in diplomacy, even the smallest gestures can echo across borders.
Politics
Ajadi Felicitates Olooye Adegoke On Birthday …Says His Philanthropic Nature Is Worthy Of Emulation
Ajadi Felicitates Olooye Adegoke On Birthday …Says His Philanthropic Nature Is Worthy Of Emulation
A leading Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has felicitated the Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA) as he marked his birthday on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, describing him as a peace loving and one whose life is dedicated to helping the needy.
Ajadi, in a display of politics without bitterness, said that though Olooye Adegoke is also aspiring to become the governor of Oyo state, he has identified his philanthropic activities which he said showed him as a selfless politician.
In a statement he personally signed on Wednesday, Ajadi said that Olooye Adegoke as a fellow Ibadan man, and a person on the Olubadan lineage, he cherished his intellectual background and humility.
According to the statement, “I felicitate with my elder brother, a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and an Ibadan traditional Chief, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke on the occasion of his birthday.
“Though we are both aspiring to be the governor of our dear State, Oyo and we are in the same party, as an Apostle of politics without bitterness, I congratulate Olooye Adegoke on his birthday.
“I wish him more years in good health and in the service of Ibadanland and Oyo State in general.
“I have watched with utmost interest and I discovered that the philanthropic activities of Olooye Adegoke tally with my belief that those that have should cater for the less privileged in the society.
“I pray that God will continue to provide for him as he continues to dedicate his life towards making the downtrodden to live good lives.”
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