Table of Contents
By Hamzat Waris
The political landscape in Nigeria is notoriously intricate, and alliances that once appeared unbreakable-such as the one between Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Nyesom Wike, former Governor of Rivers State and now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory-have dramatically unraveled. What began as a seemingly steadfast partnership has deteriorated into a bitter political feud marked by accusations, betrayals, and public mudslinging.
From Allies to Adversaries: The Dynamics of a Political Partnership
This conflict is not a simple tale of heroes versus villains. Instead, it reflects two politicians who leveraged their alliance for mutual benefit and are now clashing as their ambitions diverge. Observing Nigerians pick sides in this dispute is akin to debating which shade of mud is less dirty-an exercise in futility.
Governor Makinde earned his reputation as the “gentle giant” of Oyo politics-a leader who won hearts with a calm demeanor, rarely raising his voice but always achieving his objectives. His supporters often describe him as embodying the proverb “still waters run deep,” a strategist who fights battles quietly yet effectively. He positioned himself as a populist, connecting with everyday citizens while his rivals made noise. This carefully crafted image became his political trademark.
In stark contrast, Wike’s style has always been forthright and confrontational. Known for his aggressive and unapologetic approach, he is often likened to a political sledgehammer. Despite their opposing temperaments, Makinde and Wike found common ground, evolving from mere allies to trusted confidants. However, in Nigerian politics, such unlikely friendships often signal strategic convenience rather than genuine camaraderie.
The G5 Governors: A Coalition Born from Discontent
Their alliance made strategic sense within the broader political context. Alongside Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Makinde and Wike formed the G5 Governors, united by a shared grievance against the PDP establishment. They felt marginalized after Atiku Abubakar secured the party’s presidential ticket and Iyorchia Ayu remained National Chairman, allegedly sidelining the agreed power rotation to the South. Wike, having lost the primary to Atiku, felt particularly betrayed and disrespected.
The G5 governors became a formidable opposition within the PDP, refusing to support Atiku’s campaign, undermining party activities, and instead backing Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC. Their strategy paid off: Tinubu won the presidency, Atiku was defeated, and the G5 emerged as influential kingmakers. Makinde secured re-election in Oyo, and Wike was appointed Minister of the FCT despite his party’s loss. Their joint victory seemed to cement their alliance.
The Fragility of Political Rewards and Emerging Contradictions
However, Wike’s ministerial appointment was a double-edged sword. While it elevated his status, it also placed him in a precarious position-serving under an opposition president while remaining a PDP member. According to Makinde, Wike openly admitted in a meeting with President Tinubu that he intended to “hold the PDP down” from within, effectively pledging to undermine his own party.
Makinde claims to have been taken aback by this declaration, labeling it “ridiculous” and undemocratic. Yet, both men had previously engaged in actions that weakened their party. The real shift occurred when Wike’s allegiance to Tinubu began to eclipse his loyalty to Makinde, prompting the once-reserved governor to break his silence.
Escalation and Allegations: The Battle for Political Supremacy
Makinde’s sudden public denunciation sparked a fierce exchange. Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose accused Makinde of receiving ₦50 billion from the federal government following the Ibadan explosion, funds allegedly meant for victims but misappropriated. This staggering figure dwarfs the ₦4.5 billion compensation package announced by the state, which reportedly was never fully disbursed.
In response, Makinde acknowledged receiving ₦30 billion but claimed that ₦20 billion was withheld. This admission shifts the debate from whether funds were exchanged to questions about their management and transparency. Why, if ₦30 billion was received, do victims still report inadequate or absent compensation? What conditions led to the withholding of ₦20 billion, and why was this not communicated openly to the public? The opacity surrounding these funds fuels suspicion and controversy.
Political Realities Behind the Facade of Principles
Makinde initially portrayed himself as a defender of democratic values and party integrity, standing against Wike’s perceived betrayal. However, the unfolding events suggest a more pragmatic motive: a struggle for control over the PDP machinery ahead of the 2027 elections. This is less about ideology and more about political survival and dominance.
In Nigerian politics, alliances often come with shared secrets and mutual complicity. When such partnerships collapse, the accumulated ammunition is unleashed. Makinde’s public accusations against Wike were met with retaliatory claims aimed at tarnishing his image as a principled leader.
The Broader Implications: Transparency, Accountability, and Public Trust
The Yoruba expression “Ìjà lẹ́ ọ̀dẹ, tí orin dówe” captures this phenomenon-when political allies fall out, the secrets they once guarded become weapons. The partial confirmation of the ₦50 billion allegation by Makinde undermines his moral standing. How can he condemn Wike’s cooperation with the APC while accepting substantial federal funds himself? How can he claim to champion the people when questions linger about the distribution of aid to explosion victims?
These unresolved issues demand answers: Where exactly was the ₦30 billion allocated? How was it spent? Why do some victims still feel neglected? If Makinde opposes Wike’s ties to Tinubu, why did he reportedly engage with the president to influence APC leadership in Oyo? The uncomfortable truth is that all parties involved bear responsibility. This is not a battle of good versus evil but a contest for power, with each side portraying itself as righteous while accusing the other of corruption.
The Human Cost Amid Political Strife
While these political titans clash, ordinary Nigerians bear the brunt. Regardless of the financial disputes, the victims of the Ibadan explosion deserve full disclosure about the aid provided and its utilization. As the 2027 elections approach, expect further revelations and intensified political mudslinging. Makinde’s admission of receiving ₦30 billion marks only the beginning of a new chapter demanding transparency and accountability.
The Makinde-Wike saga exemplifies why Nigerian politics is often described as “not for the faint-hearted.” Even those entering with noble intentions risk being tainted by the system, which compels them to drag others into the fray. This descent into political mudslinging masquerades as democratic competition, yet it remains a race to the bottom.
Conclusion: Beyond the Political Theater
To summarize: Makinde and Wike were strategic partners who exploited their alliance to advance personal ambitions. When their goals diverged, they became adversaries. Makinde’s confirmation of receiving ₦30 billion from the federal government, alongside claims of withheld funds, raises pressing questions about governance and transparency.
Rather than choosing sides in this conflict, Nigerians should demand accountability from both leaders. Both have benefited from a political culture that rewards opportunism and punishes integrity. The ongoing distraction from critical issues like governance, development, and public welfare reveals the depth of the challenge facing Nigeria’s democracy.
Hamzat Waris can be reached via Warishamzat61@gmail.com
