The Forum of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for what it described as his continued leadership in defending Nigeria’s democratic space, following his hosting of a national summit of opposition political leaders in Ibadan.
The chairmen, in a statement issued after yesterday’s gathering, said the summit brought together key opposition leaders, civil society actors, and other stakeholders committed to preserving multi-party democracy in the country.
At the meeting, opposition leaders agreed to work towards presenting a single presidential candidate in future elections, a move the chairmen described as “a significant step towards strengthening democratic competition and providing credible alternatives for Nigerians.”
According to the forum, democracy thrives not on the dominance of a single political party as aimed by the APC but on the availability of viable choices for citizens. “Democracy is not defined by the success of one party. It is defined by the existence of real alternatives, by the ability of citizens to choose from parties, and by the confidence that those choices matter,” the statement read.
The chairmen praised the efforts of opposition leaders to resist what they termed attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to steer the country towards a one-party state. They described the push for a united opposition front as a “welcome development” and a historic responsibility aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic future.
They also acknowledged the participation of prominent political figures at the summit, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, former Senate President, David Mark among others. The forum noted that their deliberations culminated in what has now been termed the “Ibadan Declaration 2026.”
While applauding Governor Makinde’s role, the chairmen criticised the statement of APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, and APC National Vice Chairman (South-West), Isaacs Kekemeke for criticising the government Makinde’s statement about ‘ Wet e” at the summit.
They insisted that Makinde’s intention was not to incite political unrest but to draw attention to what they described as the dangers of perceived political dominance and self-centered governance by the ruling party.
“The governor’s actions are rooted in a sense of responsibility that transcends party lines and are aimed at preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system,” the statement added.
The forum further called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to undermine the nation’s multi-party structure. It warned against what it described as “antics capable of luring the country into authoritarianism under a one-party arrangement.”
Reaffirming their position, the chairmen urged political actors across party lines to prioritise national interest, uphold democratic principles, and support initiatives that promote inclusiveness, accountability, and credible electoral competition.
