Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, has warned that Nigeria will face serious consequences if the opposition becomes weak.
Makinde spoke while hosting the opposition summit in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.
He urged political actors to avoid division and remain actively engaged in strengthening democratic processes.
“If we allow the opposition to weaken, whether by design or by neglect, then we all bear the consequences,” he said.
He stressed that the current moment requires unity and deliberate action across political lines.
“This is not a moment for fragmentation. It is not a moment of silence. It is certainly not a moment to disengage politically,” he said.
Makinde called on stakeholders to reflect, speak truthfully and act responsibly in the interest of the country.
“It is a moment to think clearly, to speak honestly, and to act with a sense of responsibility that goes beyond party lines,” he said.
He added that Nigeria has made significant progress and must not ignore the importance of a strong opposition.
“Nigeria has gone too far to pretend that this does not matter,” he said.
The governor said ensuring that the country does not regress is a shared responsibility.
“The responsibility to ensure that it does not go further than it should belongs to all of us,” he added.
Makinde welcomed participants to the summit and expressed hope for productive deliberations.
