By Goldmark Pentho Dansu In a bold and reflective speech that is already making waves across Nigeria’s political landscape, former Governor...
By Goldmark Pentho Dansu
In a bold and reflective speech that is already making waves across Nigeria’s political landscape, former Governor of Osun State and ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, has publicly criticized the current administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling on Nigerians to hold leaders accountable based on their impact on people’s lives.
Aregbesola, once a close ally of President Tinubu, made these remarks while addressing supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos following his formal return to active politics under a new banner.
“I sincerely thank our supporters and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) who came out to receive me on my arrival in Lagos,” Aregbesola began, before pivoting to a scathing but measured critique of the state of the nation.
“The task before us is immense,” he said, “and I reminded everyone that we do not need to fight, insult, or attack anyone. When others resort to abuse or name-calling, we must rise above it.”
In a moment that felt like a clear parting of ways with his political past, Aregbesola urged his audience to ask what he called “the only question that truly matters”: Are Nigerians better off today than they were before?
Citing skyrocketing food prices, economic stagnation, rising costs of living, and deepening poverty, the former governor challenged citizens to “debate with facts” and focus their energy on constructive political engagement rather than tribal or partisan loyalties.
“We must articulate our position clearly and confidently,” he continued. “Explain why our new political home, the ADC, represents a credible and necessary alternative for Nigeria’s progress and long-term sustainability.”
Though he refrained from mentioning President Tinubu directly by name in his critical assessment, the implications were unmistakable. As a founding member of the progressive movement that birthed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Aregbesola’s defection and his blunt disapproval of the government’s performance sends a strong signal about growing discontent — not just among citizens, but also within the political elite.
Political observers see Aregbesola’s realignment with the ADC as both symbolic and strategic, as Nigeria prepares for another round of national and sub-national elections. His emphasis on civility, issue-based politics, and economic accountability appears aimed at resonating with a frustrated electorate that increasingly demands more than rhetoric.
With a final rallying cry — “Forward ever. Till victory, always.” — Aregbesola ended his speech on a note of hope, urging his followers to stay the course and fight for a new political future grounded in results and integrity.
As Nigeria watches closely, one thing is clear: the former Osun governor is not retreating from the national stage — he’s just chosen a new platform.
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