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Makinde Lashes Out at Wike: “A Vagabond Unfit for PDP” — Reckoning Within Nigeria’s Oldest Opposition Party
Makinde Lashes Out at Wike: “A Vagabond Unfit for PDP” — Reckoning Within Nigeria’s Oldest Opposition Party
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | SaharaWeeklyNG.com
“Governor Seyi Makinde’s explosive rebuke of Nyesom Wike exposes deep fractures within the PDP and signals a defining moment for the future of Nigeria’s opposition politics.”
In the sun-baked political theatre of Ibadan, Oyo State, a seismic rupture has opened within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s once-dominant opposition force. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde delivered a blistering public indictment of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike; one that goes far beyond intra-party friction, piercing into the soul of Nigerian party politics itself. Makinde unapologetically branded Wike a “vagabond,” openly regretted his past alignment with him during the tumultuous 2023 general elections, and rejected any lingering influence that Wike and his faction might attempt to wield within the PDP’s structure.
Addressing a gathering at the commissioning of the PDP Secretariat in Oke-Ado, Makinde’s remarks cut across polite political disagreement and veered into stark moral condemnation. He spoke not as a factional leader but as a self-declared reformer seeking to reclaim the party from forces he believes have undermined its principles and prospects.
This confrontation is not trivial. It reflects a broader and enduring crisis within the PDP, a party still grappling with the aftershocks of losing federal power over a decade ago and struggling to define its identity ahead of future elections.
The Anatomy of a Rift.
Makinde’s core accusation was two-fold. First, he asserted that elements within the PDP (whom he repeatedly labeled vagabonds) used internal party mechanisms not to strengthen the PDP but to serve interests outside the party’s mandate. Second, Makinde publicly distanced himself from those figures, including Wike, whose conduct he says betrayed the party during the 2023 elections.
Makinde’s account is unambiguous: “When I came into government in 2019, and even up to 2023, I found myself aligned with some of these forces. But I have reflected, repented and resolved never to allow that again.”
His choice of words carries biblical weight (repentance) suggesting not mere political disagreement, but moral recalibration.
For context, many analysts point to the 2015 loss of federal power by the PDP as the genesis of deep internal fractures. That defeat created a leadership vacuum, which subsequent factions sought to fill, sometimes through means that rankled party loyalists. Makinde invoked a traditional Yoruba proverb to illustrate his point: where there is peace in a household, it is not because all is well, but because the disorderly elements have not yet grown up. He applied this proverb directly to PDP’s internal disruption, asserting that those elements had, at one time, “practised their vagabondry” within the party until formally expelled in late 2025.
This “expulsion” refers to actions taken during the PDP’s controversial national convention in Ibadan in late 2025, where several leading figures (including Wike) were voted out of key leadership roles amid factional legal battles. That convention itself was mired in legal challenges and internal strife, reflecting a party deeply fragmented.
Makinde’s words were deliberately provocative. To brand a senior party member and cabinet minister as a vagabond in political parlance is to label him unreliable, unprincipled, and opportunistic, traits that go to the heart of public trust.
Wike: A Political Trajectory Under Scrutiny.
Nyesom Wike is no ordinary foot soldier in Nigerian politics. A seasoned operative and former governor of Rivers State, Wike has cultivated a reputation for bold, sometimes abrasive, political maneuvers. His intervention in party affairs, especially beyond his home state, has drawn admiration from some quarters and ire from others. Yet what Makinde’s critique suggests is that Wike’s conduct has become a flashpoint for deeper questions about loyalty, ideology and the purpose of party politics itself.
Wike’s defenders argue that he has consistently asserted that his actions, including positions taken during the 2023 elections, were guided by principles of fairness and justice which though not without controversy. Earlier reports show that in 2024 he claimed he had “no apologies” for his role in opposing the PDP’s presidential bid, insisting he acted not out of disloyalty but conviction.
To them, Wike represents a school of Nigerian politics that privileges tactical calculations over consensus building, a style that resonates in Nigeria’s often fractious political environment but also deepens fault lines within parties like the PDP.
Expert Analysis: What This Means for Nigerian Politics.
To understand the implications of this confrontation, we must consider scholarly perspectives on party fragmentation and political behavior in Nigeria.
Political analyst Dr. Habeeb Lawal, Lecturer in African Political Studies at the University of Lagos, argues that “the PDP’s identity crisis stems from a broader crisis of political institutionalisation in Nigeria. When politicians prioritise personal ambition over party principles, it weakens not only party cohesion but democratic governance itself.”
Lawal’s analysis underscores a pattern endemic to Nigerian politics: parties often serve as platforms for personal advancement rather than vehicles for ideological consistency or policy advocacy. In that sense, Makinde’s denunciation of Wike is not merely personal, but symptomatic of a larger systemic tension.
Similarly, Professor Modupe Akinola, an expert in political ethics at Ibadan University, suggests that public leaders must be held to standards that transcend mere tactical disagreements. “A party cannot rebuild itself on the foundation of individual power struggles,” she said. “If you cannot articulate a vision for the common good beyond your own political survival, you risk hollowing out the very institution you claim to defend.”
Her insight points to a central dilemma: the PDP’s relevance depends on its ability to project unity without quashing legitimate disagreement, and to tolerate diversity of thought without descending into factional warfare.
Beyond the Words: What Comes Next?
Makinde’s remarks did more than shock; they reframed the conversation around party culture and accountability. He reaffirmed confidence in the Nigerian judiciary as a neutral arbiter, a notable stance considering the party’s history of litigating internal disputes. “Truth will always prevail,” Makinde said, asserting that legal remedies remain central to resolving the PDP’s internal conflicts.
Yet the deeper impact of his declarations will be measured in the weeks and months to come. Will the PDP rally behind a renewed emphasis on discipline and unity? Or will this rupture deepen, inviting further splintering and loss of coherence?
International observers, particularly those who monitor democratic transitions in multi-ethnic societies, will watch closely. Political cohesion in major parties is often a bellwether for democratic resilience. Nigeria’s fragile democracy, still navigating its third decade of uninterrupted civilian rule, cannot afford weakened opposition at a time when accountability and political alternatives are essential.
Parting Thoughts: A Reckoning That Cannot Be Ignored.
What Governor Makinde articulated in Ibadan is more than intra-party quarrel; it is a clarion call for introspection within Nigerian opposition politics. By calling out what he describes as vagabondry, he has invited the PDP (and the broader political class) to confront uncomfortable truths about ambition, loyalty, principle and reform.
Whether this confrontation leads to renewal or further fracture remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Nigeria’s political story in this era will not be written by those who refuse to address the deep contradictions within their own ranks.
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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023
CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023
By: Boye Ola
The Centre for Responsible Governance (CRG) has called on political actors and interest groups to desist from what it described as needless witch-hunting of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, following renewed controversies surrounding his National Youth Service Corps records.
The organisation noted that the clarification by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) regarding the matter is not a recent development, as a formal verification letter had already been issued as far back as May 23, 2023.
The letter, referenced NYSC/CCD/VER/10/5.1/VOL1/02, had already addressed and cleared the questions surrounding the Deputy Speaker’s NYSC records.
Reacting to the renewed debate, the spokesman of the Centre,
Obande George, said it was troubling that issues which had already been clarified by a competent national institution were being resurrected for political purposes.
According to him, the time has come for political actors to move away from destructive engagements and concentrate on building the nation.
“It is important to note that the NYSC had already issued a verification letter dated May 23, 2023 addressing the matter.
Reopening issues that have already been clarified by a competent authority suggests that some individuals are more interested in political witch-hunting than in national progress,” George said.
The CRG stressed that democracy thrives when institutions are respected and their determinations are accepted in good faith rather than constantly questioned for political advantage.
George also commended the Deputy Speaker for demonstrating maturity and composure throughout the controversy, despite what he described as sustained provocations.
“Honourable Benjamin Kalu has shown remarkable calm and maturity in the face of intense public scrutiny and political provocation.
Instead of engaging in unnecessary public confrontation, he allowed institutions to speak through their records.”
The Centre warned that Nigeria’s political culture must evolve beyond constant character attacks and sensational allegations, which often distract public officials from their responsibilities.
According to the organisation, the country’s development requires constructive engagement among political actors rather than continuous attempts to discredit opponents.
“Nigeria cannot move forward if political energy is constantly spent on digging up allegations and amplifying rumours. Our leaders and political actors must redirect their focus to governance, policy and nation building.”
CRG therefore urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from credible institutions and avoid spreading speculative claims that could damage reputations or destabilise public discourse.
The organisation reiterated that respect for due process and institutional integrity remains essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
@The Centre for Responsible Governance, Email: [email protected], Instagram: crgngo6, Twitter: crgng06, Threads: crgngo6
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IWD 2026: Ajadi Celebrates Women, Urges Them To Seek More Elective Positions In Future Elections
IWD 2026: Ajadi Celebrates Women, Urges Them To Seek More Elective Positions In Future Elections
A Leading People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) Governorship Aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has felicitates with women in the country on the occasion of this year’s International Women’s Day.
The international Women’s Day is celebrated on 8 March, commemorating women’s fight for equality and liberation along with the women right’s movement. It gives focus to issues such as gender equality and reproductive rights. International Women’s Day originated from labour movements in Europe and North America during the early 20th century.
In a statement issued on Sunday to commemorate this year’s edition of the International Women’s Day, Ajadi said the role of the women in nation building cannot be over emphasised.
He recalled the role played by prominent Nigerian women like Mrs Funmilayo Ransome- Kuti, Margaret Ekpo and Wuraola Esan towards the liberalization and the growth of the country and urges women to follow their footsteps by not only participate in the political process but seek more elective positions.
He urges the political leaders to encourage and give more chances to women for them to contest and occupy elective positions in the country.
Ajadi also called for more respect for women, saying they are definitely behind whatever success recorded by the menfolk.
He said domestic violence against women should be stopped, saying they deserves respect for their role in moulding the future leaders.
According to the statement, “I celebrate and congratulate our women on this year’s occasion of International Women’s Day. We cannot underestimate the role played by our women both at home, in the social circle and in politics. They deserve more respect.
“I equally called on them not only to be a passive participants in politics but to determine to seek more elected positions in future elections. They should aspire more from the position of dancing and singing at campaigns to seek more elective positions. The ratio of men to women in elective positions in the country is embarrassing. Women should stand up and fight for more elective positions.
“I also use the occasion of this year’s Women’s Day to appeal to Nigerians to stop domestic violence against the women. If we treat our women well, our country will witness unprecedented developments”.
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International Women’s Day 2026: Adron Homes Champions Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Growth
International Women’s Day 2026: Adron Homes Champions Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Growth
As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, Adron Homes and Properties has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women with meaningful opportunities to serve, lead, and shape the future of Nigeria’s real estate landscape.
Observed globally on March 8, this year’s theme, “Give To Gain,” calls for intentional investment in women through access to resources, education, mentorship, and leadership platforms. The message is clear: when women are empowered, organizations prosper, communities flourish, and nations grow stronger.
In line with this vision, Adron Homes highlighted its people-first culture, which promotes gender inclusion at all operational levels. From executive management and regional administration to marketing leadership, client experience, and field operations, women continue to play strategic roles in driving the company’s growth and service excellence.
According to the company, creating pathways for women to lead is not just a policy direction but a proven strategy that fuels innovation, strengthens decision-making, and deepens stakeholder trust.
Adron Homes also highlighted its internal capacity-building initiatives designed to equip female professionals with the skills and confidence needed for greater responsibility. Through structured mentorship, leadership exposure, and performance-based advancement systems, the organization continues to raise a new generation of women leaders within the property sector.
Delivering a message to commemorate the day, the Executive Vice Chairman, Olori Aderonke Emmanuelking, emphasized the company’s enduring commitment to inclusive progress:
“The theme ‘Give To Gain’ speaks to a principle we strongly believe in at Adron Homes, empowering women is an investment with lasting returns. When women are supported to lead and succeed, the impact goes beyond the workplace; it transforms families, industries, and society at large. We remain committed to building systems that help women rise and thrive.”
The company noted that its celebration of International Women’s Day reflects a broader mission, developing not only thriving residential communities but also a workplace culture where talent is recognized without bias and leadership opportunities are accessible to all.
As Adron Homes continues its expansion drive, it remains steadfast in fostering an environment where women are encouraged to contribute meaningfully, lead confidently, and grow sustainably.
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