MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2025
VOL 20 NO 72
Faces That Will Shape Nigerian Politics In 2026 •Atiku, Makinde, Amaechi, El-Rufai, Others Race To Pick Presidential Tickets In PDP, ADC •Three-Horse Race In Osun As Adeleke Rallies Opposition Stakeholders
Alleged Forgery Of Tax Laws Threat To Nigeria’s T Democracy – ADC P 2 NGO Writes AGF, Seeks Release Of Osun LG Funds, Clarification On Recognised Council Officials P 2
Our Reporters
HE year 2026 is just a few days away. To many, it is another year but to key poli cal watchers in Nigeria, it is one loaded with varied events. This is because it is one that precedes the much talked about 2027 general elec ons; where poli cians will once again, test their popularity and pact with the people of their various cons tuencies,
states and the en re federa on. In this report, OSUN DEFENDER examines the road to 2027 and how the upcoming year will be highly defini ve to the journey ahead. -A ku, Makinde, Amaechi, El-Rufai, Others Race To Pick Presiden al Tickets In PDP, ADC 2027 will be the eight in the cycle of elec ons since Nigeria began its fourth repub-
lic in 1999. It is a year that will produce a new set of Governors for at least a half of the states of the federa on, while many incumbents will return. President Bola Tinubu will also vie for a cons tu onally backed second term in office. Across party lines, consulta ons, quiet mee ngs and strategic realignments kicked off earlier than usual in early 2024. In fact, the
race for the na on’s top job, began late in 2023 with the emergence of key elements across the country joining forces to ins tute a grand coali on that will seek to wrestle power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The African Democra c Congress (ADC) had in July this year emerged as the alterna ve pla orm for •Continued on page 5
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2025
2
News
Alleged Forgery Of Tax Laws Threat To Nigeria’s Democracy – ADC
•Governor Ademola Adeleke flanked by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, alongside other dignitaries at the passing out parade of 89 Regular Recruits Intake, held at the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, on Saturday
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HE African Democra c Congress (ADC) has called for the immediate suspension of the tax laws signed by President Bola Tinubu and scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, ci ng alleged forgery of key provisions. The opposi on party said its demand followed findings that the final versions of the tax laws contained clauses that were not part of the bills passed by the Na onal Assembly. In a statement issued over the weekend by the party’s spokesperson, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused the Tinubu administraon of tampering with legisla on a er passage, describing the move as a threat to cons tu onal governance and democra c principles. The party said alteraons made to the laws allegedly removed accountability provisions while inser ng new clauses gran ng sweeping enforcement powers to the Execu ve. According to the ADC, such ac ons undermine the doctrine of separa on of powers and amount to an a empt by the President to concentrate excessive authority in the Execu ve arm of government. The party stressed that under the Cons tuon, only the legislature has the power to make laws, warning that any devia on from due process poses grave danger to democracy. It therefore called on the Na onal Assembly to immediately suspend the implementa on of the tax laws and conduct a full legisla ve review to determine the extent of the alleged altera ons. The ADC also de-
manded a publ ic inquiry and the prosecu on of any government officials found culpable in what
it described as criminal forgery of duly passed legisla on. “The African Demo-
cra c Congress has reviewed reports confirming that the tax laws passed by the Na onal
Assembly and signed by President Bola Tinubu contain substan al forgeries of provisions not approved by lawmakers,” the statement said. “Our forensic review of the original bills and the gaze ed versions shows that accountability clauses were deleted and coercive powers inserted, including provisions allowing the government to arrest individuals and take over property without court orders,” it added. “This goes beyond taxa on. It reflects a government with no regard for democra c ins tu ons and willing to violate cons tu onal boundaries to pursue its narrow agenda,” the party stated. “The ADC therefore calls for the immediate suspension of all the 2025 tax laws and the
NGO Writes AGF, Seeks Release Of Osun LG Funds, Clarification On Recognised Council Officials
T
HE Insight Ini ave for Community and Social
Development (IICSD), a youth-led governance and accountability or-
ganisa on based in Osun State, has wri en the A orney-General of the Federa on and Minister of Jus ce, Mr Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), seeking the release of withheld local government funds belonging to Osun State. In a le er received at the Federal Ministry of Jus ce on December 9, 2025, the organisa on urged the Federal Government to comply with the recent Supreme Court judgment gran ng full financial autonomy
Osogbo Residents Lament Worsening Power Supply, Seek Urgent Intervention
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ESIDENTS of Osogbo and several other communies in Osun State have raised concerns over what they describe as a steady decline in electricity supply, marked by prolonged outages and uncertain restoraon periods. Findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that areas such as Ilesa Garage, Oke Ijetu and Oke Baale have endured days of erra c power supply, disrupting household rou nes and crippling small businesses. Many residents said the situa on has worsened in recent weeks. Some locals described the outages as the worst they have ex-
perienced since 2023, when instability of the na onal grid became more frequent. They blamed the poor supply for declining business ac vi es, spoiled food items and increased reliance on costly generators. A phone charging business operator in Oke Ijetu, Tayo Adisa, said the situa on had forced him to shut
down temporarily. “People can no longer rely on electricity. We pay our bills, yet there is hardly light,” he said. A teacher, Mariam Longe, lamented the impact on learning, no ng that frequent outages disrupt evening classes. “We manage with candles and torches, but it affects concentra on,” she added. Responding, the Ibadan Electricity Distribu on Company said reduced alloca on from the na onal grid was responsible, adding that it was working with relevant agencies to improve supply and urged residents to remain pa ent.
to local government councils. IICSD also requested official clarifica on on the legally recognised leadership of the 30 local government councils and area offices in the state, ci ng conflic ng judgments of the Court of Appeal that have created uncertainty over lawful council administraon. The le er, signed by the organisa on’s Execu ve Director, ‘Jare Tiamiyu, noted that the ambiguity has stalled effec ve grassroots governance, with rival claimants laying hold to council leadership posi ons. The group said residents had suffered prolonged setbacks in service delivery, adding that its 2024 statewide survey showed over 75 per cent of residents had lost confidence in local government effec veness. IICSD stressed that clarity was crucial following the Supreme Court’s December 5 ruling direc ng that alloca ons be paid directly to councils. The organisa on urged the AGF to issue clear legal guidance to ensure smooth release, receipt and u lisa on of funds, and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening transparency and democra c governance in Osun State.
prosecu on of any official involved in this act, which strikes at the heart of Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement concluded.
UK-Based Nigerians Launch Initiative To Eradicate Malaria In Nigeria
A
Nigerian diaspora non-governmental organisaon, Diaspora Solu on Group Nigeria (DSGN), has launched a project aimed at eradica ng malaria across the country. Founded by NigerianAmerican professionals, the ini a ve seeks to address malaria at its root. Speaking at a na onal conference on malaria elimina on in Osogbo, Osun State, DSGN President Soba Oyeleke said millions of Nigerians remain at risk despite ongoing government efforts. “Our focus is clear: to explore emerging tools, assess evidence, share experiences, and align on strategies that support safer and more effec ve malaria control interven ons,” he said. Oyeleke revealed that the group has mobilised funds internally and is preparing for a pilot programme targe ng mosquito popula ons, urging government and stakeholders to collaborate. “The next step will be the pilot programme. We want all stakeholders to take responsibility; this is not ours alone,” he added. Professor Olusegun Ademowo of the University of Ibadan noted that human behaviour remains a major obstacle in malaria control, stressing the need for environmental hygiene and public coopera on. Represented by Health Commissioner, Barr. Jola Akintola, Governor Ademola Adeleke reaffirmed his administra on’s commitment to public health. He called for collecve ac on, no ng that effec ve malaria eradica on requires collabora on among health professionals, researchers, development partners, and communi es.
PEOPLE FIRST
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2025
3
Analysing What’s On The Front Burner
Amidst The Inflationary “Detty December”
F
The Year Ahead
OR the overwhelming majority of Nigerians, 2025 feels already spent. The year has been defined by worsening insecurity, exemplified by the kidnapping of schoolgirls, and the relentless erosion of purchasing power, pushing thousands daily into poverty. In this grim reality, 2026 cannot come soon enough like waking from a long, unrelen ng nightmare. Hope is pinned on the New Year for a na onal rebirth, yet the federal government’s budget proposal for 2026 has been met largely with indifference, if not derision. Nigerians are acutely aware that mere fiscal numbers cannot mask systemic failures or restore trust. The na on must use the coming year to confront the hydraheaded challenges blocking its immense poten al. There is a deep-seated crisis reminiscent of Antonio Gramsci’s reflec ons on Italy over a century ago. He observed, “The crisis lies in the inability to get out of a system that has failed, preven ng a new one from being born; in the interregnum, all manner of morbid symptoms reveal themselves. We are in the age of monsters.” Nigeria faces a similar interregnum, and confron ng these “monsters” must be a na onal priority. The opposi on, confronted by creeping authoritarianism, must coalesce around a popular front to rejuvenate a dis-
“Economic reforms alone are insufficient. Nigeria must address structural inequalities, create opportunities for youth, and prioritize education and healthcare. Without these, poverty will persist, social unrest will deepen, and hope will remain elusive”
•A decisive year in the making
pirited republic. A coherent, people-centered programme must be presented, grounded in fiscal prudence, shared prosperity, and sustainable development — not ephemeral “growth” devoid of real progress. Furthermore, na onal rebirth depends on progressive forces uni ng to redirect the discourse and provide a mobilizing tool for popular engagement. Ci zens must feel empowered, and democra c ins tu ons must be strengthened to safeguard liberty and accountability. Economic reforms alone are insufficient. Nigeria must address structural inequali es, create opportuni es for youth, and priori ze educa on and healthcare. Without these, poverty will persist, social unrest will deepen, and hope will remain elusive. Equally cri cal is the fight against corrup on and the strengthening of governance at all levels. Ins tu ons must operate transparently, and leaders must be held accountable to the people. Trust in public ins tu ons is the cornerstone of any sustainable na onal renewal. Finally, the moral fabric of society must be restored. Civic responsibility, ethical leadership, and public service must replace cynicism and opportunism. Only then can Nigerians collec vely forge a future worthy of their resilience and aspira ons. With op mism, we wish our loyal readers a beau ful, blessed Christmas and an upli ing, transforma ve New Year ahead. May 2026 mark the dawn of renewed hope, progress, and na onal rebirth.
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ITHOUT any deliberate planning, support, or even awareness on the part of government at any level, a new informal economy has emerged in Nigeria: De y December. This economy is no longer anecdotal; it is burgeoning, expanding in leaps and bounds, and quietly reshaping urban commercial life, especially in Lagos. For those with long memories, the phenomenon recalls the economic momentum unleashed during the administra on of Governor Babatunde Fashola, when the banning of street par es inadvertently s mulated massive private investment in event centres and professional event management. What followed was the birth of an industry that became not only viable, but fashionable and globally compe ve. De y December is now all the rage, drawing in hard currency largely from the Nigerian diaspora and foreign tourists. Hotels, shortlet apartments, entertainment venues, nightlife businesses, creaves, and logis cs providers are all cashing in. The scramble for profit is intense, and the inflow of foreign exchange is real. However, there is a troubling underside. Unlike Ghana’s carefully managed December tourism economy, Nigeria’s version has become plagued by unchecked and o en
•Dirty December should be joyful and not a forum for extortion
deliberate price infla on. In many instances, prices appear contrived, calculated to fleece visitors of their hard-earned dollars and pounds. Le unregulated, this prac ce risks killing the very business it seeks to exploit. The infla onary bubble cuts across sectors. Hotel rates are inflated beyond value, event ckets are priced irra onally, and even basic services now carry “De y December” premiums. Ride-hailing fares in Lagos, in par cular, have climbed into the stratosphere, placing an unsustainable burden on visitors and residents alike. This price distor on is not organic; it is manufactured. It reflects opportunism rather than value creaon and poses a direct threat to the sustainability of this emerging economic model. No economy, formal informal, thrives in an environ“If properly managed, or ment of unchecked excess. Detty December could Contrary to popular belief, no economy operates withevolve into a structured, successful out regula on. Even the most marrepeatable tourism and ket-driven systems rely on rules to exploita on and protect longcultural economy with curb term growth. In this case, reluctant year-round benefits. If as it may be, government intervenis now impera ve. left unchecked, it risks onThis does not mean s fling enbecoming a cautionary terprise or crea vity. Rather, it calls light-touch regula on, consumtale of how greed can for er protec on standards, and coundermine innovation” ordinated pricing transparency to preserve confidence and compe veness. If properly manPublisher – Moremi Publishing aged, De y DecemHouse Ltd. ber could evolve into Asst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola a structured, repeatAsst. Features Editor – Kazeem Badmus able tourism and culDeputy Photo Editor – Shola Aderinto tural economy with Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere year-round benefits. If le unchecked, it risks Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa becoming a cau onary OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing tale of how greed can House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, undermine innova on. The choice before Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. policymakers and ISSN : 0794-8050 stakeholders is clear: Telephone : 0809-301-9152 protect the goose that Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php lays the golden eggs, e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com or watch it collapse osundefenderbank@gmail.com under the weight of its All correspondence to the above email addresses. own excesses.
OSUN DEFENDER
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2025
4
Interview
Makinde Is Popular for Wasting Our Resources – APC Spokesperson In this interview with ABIODUN OGUNRINDE, the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Olawale Sadare, criticises the performance of Governor Seyi Makinde and outlines his party’s strategy ahead of the 2027 one with ambi on should currently be consul ng governorship election. privately. Un l INEC gives the go-ahead, the party has not invited anyone to declare interest. What is APC’s realis c path to victory in 2027? We will leave no stone unturned. Our processes will be democra c and transparent, and we will not take voters for granted. All prospec ve aspirants will be given equal opportuni es to present their ideas and programmes to party members and the electorate. What will an APC government do differently if it returns to power? The APC has a clear manifesto and policy blueprint. Aspirants are expected to align their ideas with the party’s vision. Once a candidate emerges and becomes governor, implementa on will be seamless because the policies would already reflect the party’s development agenda for Oyo State.
H
OW do you assess the performance of the PDP-led government in Oyo State? I believe the best judges are the people of Oyo State, but as a resident and a bona fide indigene, I can also speak objec vely. My view is not from the posi on of an opposi on spokesperson alone. Frankly, the last six and a half years have been disappoin ng. There has been a clear lack of vision, innova on and crea vity in governance. Governor Makinde assumed office at a me of increased federal alloca ons, unlike some of his predecessors who experienced severe shor alls. Unfortunately, the resources available have not translated into the level of development expected. Since 2019, it has largely been noise with very li le concrete ac on. Some argue that prompt payment of salaries and pensions is a major achievement. What is your response? Paying salaries and pensions is not an extraordinary achievement. Civil servants earn their wages and when a governor receives substan al monthly alloca ons, there is no excuse for failing to pay workers. Abuja releases funds regularly, so salary payment should be the bare minimum. It should not be celebrated as magic or excep onal performance. You have accused Governor Makinde of was ng state resources. Can you explain? On the average, the governor receives not less than ₦30 billion monthly. The ques on is what he does with this money. Funds meant for the 33 local governments are centrally controlled, making governance overly autocra c. Commissioners cannot ques on decisions or independently ini ate projects. Power is concentrated in one office and that is
•Sadare
unhealthy for development. How does the APC plan to counter Governor Makinde’s popularity and reconnect with the grassroots? The process has already begun. We have realised the need for unity, cohesion and a shared purpose within the party. The leadership has made significant progress in that direc on. All hands are now on deck as we focus on reclaiming power in 2027. We are not pushing any anointed candidate. When the me comes, a flag bearer will emerge through due process and the party will rally behind that person. What is your view on aspirants ahead of the 2027 governorship elec on? As far as the party is concerned, there are no aspirants yet. We have not reached that stage. Any-
“Governor Makinde assumed office at a time of increased federal allocations, unlike some of his predecessors who experienced severe shortfalls. Unfortunately, the resources available have not translated into the level of development expected. Since 2019, it has largely been noise with very little concrete action”
We Have Tasted What Is Delicious, Now We Are Taking What Is Nutritious – PDP Spokesperson In this interview with ABIODUN OGUNRINDE, the Publicity Secretary of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Micheal Ogunsina says Governor Seyi Makinde’s record is unmatched and explains why the party is confident ahead of the is PDP’s realis c path to victory in the 2027 governorship election. “We have tasted what is nextWhat governorship elec on? Our pathway to victory is simple. We will delicious; now we are campaign on the achievements of Governor Seyi Since 2019, his performance speaks taking what is nutritious. Makinde. for itself. No governor since the crea on of Oyo Governor Makinde is State in 1976 has matched what he has done. By 3, 2026, during the Oyo@50 celebranutritious. PDP is nutri- February on, we will showcase these achievements to tious. Oyo State is today theIsworld. that alone enough to campaign with? We have tasted what is delicious; one of the safest states nowAbsolutely. we are taking what is nutri ous. Governor is nutri ous. PDP is nutri ous. Oyo State in the South and one of Makinde is today one of the safest states in the South and the most attractive for one of the most a rac ve for economic growth. Under previous administra ons, 100 kilometres economic growth” of roads were not built. Today, over 800 kilome-
•Ogunsina
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HE PDP in Oyo State has faced claims of internal division. How are you ensuring unity ahead of the next elec on? I can say clearly that Oyo State PDP is united. Across the 351 wards and the 33 local governments, there is no crisis threatening the party. We are deliberate in our engagement at all levels, ensuring party members and supporters are carried along. We are responsible and at the same me, we do not take the love of the people for granted. What is your reac on to the defec on of some PDP members to opposi on par es?
Poli cs is about movement and change. Defec on is not new. In fact, some candidates who contested against us in the last elec on have now joined the PDP. For example, the Oyo North senatorial candidate of the Accord Party and the Oyo Central candidate, Faozy, are now in PDP. Even some key figures from the Ajimobi administra on have joined us. So, while some may leave, many others are coming in. Are you saying there are no aggrieved members within the PDP? In poli cs, it is impossible to make everyone happy at the same me. Expecta ons differ. However, there is no individual who can say he has an issue with the PDP in Oyo State. At worst, there may be unmet expecta ons, but that does not translate to anger or division within the party.
tres are completed or ongoing. Which emerging leaders in your party do you see as future assets? We have many. I see myself as a future asset. Wasiu Adeleke, Alhaji Akeem Azeez, Sola Adeleke and many others are future assets. PDP has enough brilliant and qualified people to face any opposi on. Who do you view as the poten al aspirants as 2027 approaches? There are many interested individuals, but the party is wai ng for INEC to li the ban on poli cal ac vi es. When that happens, everyone will have an equal opportunity. Can you men on some of the aspirants? No, that would be unfair. It is be er to wait for INEC to li the ban so the process can be open and transparent.
PEOPLE FIRST
News
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2025
5
Faces That Will Shape Nigerian Politics In 2026 •Continued from page 1 leading opposi on voices in the country, par cularly a er their bid to register a new party was ‘frustrated.’ OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the tendency led by former Senate President David Mark and former Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, as Na onal Secretary, was predicated on the desire to promote responsible leadership, restore public confidence in governance, and as well tackle the myriad of governance challenges facing the most populous black na on. Major leaders in the opposi on tendency including former Vice President A ku Abubakar, Labour party’s Presidenal candidate, Peter Obi, Mallam Nasir ElRufai, Ro mi Amaechi, among others are seen by many as those likely to contest the party’s cket. While A ku has opened up on his desire to vie for the na on’s top job once again, figures like ElRufai, Amaechi, and others within the ADC are also predicted to be interested in represen ng the party at the polls. With the renewed calls for a Southern presiden al candidate, some gladiators may finally decide to step down for each other in order to win the elec on. Currently, the ruling APC at the centre has 27 state governors, with some others on the wai ng list and may defect before the end of 2026 Q1. Beyond the ADC, hitherto main opposi on Peoples Democra c Party (PDP) is s ll grappling with the internal crisis that has plagued it since the last general elec ons. While FCT Minister Nyesom Wike insists on his lackeys being at the helms of affairs, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has not relented in taking over the leadership of the party. While issues related to the recent Ibadan PDP Na onal Conven on are yet to kiss the dust, Makinde remains the favourite to clinch the party’s presiden al cket, if the rota onal presidency that currently gives the South an edge is followed.
The outgoing Governor of Oyo brings to the race a blend of a corporate experience and an eightyear reign as the Chief Execu ve of the pacese er state, as well as his deep pocket, which many see as his strength going into the race. The year 2026 will unfold some other contenders, pretenders and those who may wish to test the waters ahead of 2031. Three-Horse Race In Osun As Adeleke Rallies Opposi on Stakeholders With the conclusion of party primaries on December 15, the stage is set for a breath taking campaign period, as ci zens and residents of Osun State edge closer to the much an cipated August 8, 2026 governorship elec on. Although, there seems to be four major contenders for the Bola Ige House, OSUN DEFENDER’s findings indicated that only the candidates of Accord – Governor Ademola Adeleke; All Progressives Congress (APC) – Mr. Bola Oyebamiji and that of the African Democra c Congress (ADC) – Dr. Najeem Salaam are the major frontrunners, while the candidature of Adedamola Adebayo (Fryo) of the Peoples’ Democra c Party (PDP) may be disputed. Many stakeholders are interested in the poten al outcome of the Osun elec on due to various factors. Top on it is the fact that the elec on precedes the na onal one; which has for three consecuve cycles shown the pa ern and tendency that elec ons have gone on the bigger scale across the country, especially at the Presiden al Race. The other angle to it is that the top three contenders come from the same Osun West Senatorial District, which has for long yearned for the governorship of the state. While people like Oyebamiji – the immediate past Managing Director of the Na onal Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), enjoy the backing and support of the federal government, Salaam – a former Speaker of
Osun State House of Assembly counts on public support and the achievements of his leader, former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who ruled the state from 2010=2018. On the flip side, Adeleke’s poli cal journey since 2022 illustrates the difficulty of survival in a fluid environment. Despite sustained specula on, the Governor found it difficult to secure a seamless transi on into the APC. Internal resistance, fac onal interests, and unresolved rivalries limited his op ons. With those doors effec vely shut, Adeleke has now aligned with the Accord Party, a move driven by strategic necessity rather than sen ment. Since then, his poli cal acvity has intensified. He has stepped up engagements with former key figures, especially his recent romance with former Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeo , who le the Omoluabi Progressives camp, a few weeks ago. Reports also suggest that the Governor his making silent moves to woo key leaders of the Aregbesola tendency, to midwife a possible coali on against the All Progressives Congress (APC) spearheaded by former Governor Gboyega Oyetola now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
Eki 2026: Oyebanji, Bejide, Oluyede Weigh Chances As Eki State prepares for the June 20, 2026 governorship elec on, three major poli cal par es have unveiled their candidates, signalling the start of an intensely compe ve race. The incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, will contest on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), seeking a second term in office. The Peoples Democra c Party (PDP) has presented Dr Wole Oluyede, a familiar figure who has previously contested the governorship twice, while the African Democra c Congress (ADC) has nominated Ambassador Dare Bejide for its first major governorship ou ng in the state. Eki ’s poli cal landscape has historically been shaped by the rivalry between the APC and the PDP since the return to democra c rule, and this pa ern is expected to con nue in 2026. However, the entry of the ADC adds a new dimension, as the party seeks to expand its influence and challenge the dominance of the two established par es. While the APC and PDP retain deeprooted structures across the state, the ADC is posi oning itself as an alterna ve voice in the contest.
Poli cal analysts say the APC enters the race with clear advantages, including incumbency, access to resources, and strong party structures. The ruling party is expected to campaign on its governance record, infrastructure projects, and the promise of con nuity, with support from key poli cal figures and stakeholders in the state strengthening Governor Oyebanji’s re-elec on bid. The PDP, on the other hand, faces internal challenges that could affect its prospects. Despite its loyal grassroots base, the party is grappling with divisions, including a legal dispute arising from its last governorship primary that produced Dr. Oluyede as candidate. Observers note that how effec vely the PDP resolves these issues, alongside the ADC’s ability to mobilise voters beyond its current base, will play a cri cal role in shaping the outcome of the 2026 elec on. These moves suggest deliberate efforts to build a broad opposi on front capable of challenging APC dominance in the state. The Pulse Of The People Across Osogbo, Ilesa, Ede, and other urban centres, voter a tudes show growing scep cism toward party switching. From available data, many
voters now evaluate candidates based on performance data, budgets and visible projects delivered since 2022. Social media analysis since 2023 highlights declining emoonal a achment to big par es, especially among first- me voters. Undecided voters now form a significant bloc in several wards, crea ng uncertainty for all camps. Economic pressure, insecurity, and governance delivery remain the top issues shaping voter conversa ons. Looking Ahead To 2026 As 2026 approaches, party ckets will increasingly be determined by numbers, structures, and turnout poten al. APC’s control of most governorships gives it leverage, but voter fague presents risks. Opposi on success depends on unity, credible alterna ves, and effec ve mobilisa on. Osun State will serve as a cri cal test of whether new alliances can outperform entrenched power. Na onally, ADC’s strategic choices may redefine third-force poli cs. OSUN DEFENDER’s findings note that Nigerian poli cs in 2026 will reward those who understand data, ming, and public mood, not noise or nostalgia.
ISSN : 0794 - 8050
News
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2025 VOL. 20 NO 72 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
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HERE is a lingering problem over the way and manner local governments have been created arbitrarily in this country. The problem became worse under the Military. Some call it Military Nepo sm and as it is now, with the 1999 cons tu on very difficult to amend, it seems we have to live and endure with the problem for a long me. Before independence in 1960, there were 240 na ve authori es in Nigeria, the North had 144, the West had 55 and the East had 47. The states we referred to as East had 72 local governments in 1979 while the Zone we referred to as West including Lagos had 60. The states that we group as the old North had 152 local governments in 1979 while the old Mid-Western region which we named as Bendel state had 19 local governments. In total we had 303 local governments. For example, Lagos state had 8 local governments in 1979. And they were Lagos-Island, Lagos-Mainland, Shomolu, Mushin, Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu and Ikeja. The same Lagos State now has 20 local governments according to the 1999 cons tu on. In 1979, Kano state had 20 local governments namely Kano (Metropolitan), Damba a, Ringim, Minjibir, Gezewa, Bichi, Dawakin-Tofa, Gwarzo,Tundun-Wada, Rano, Wudil, Dawakin-Kudu,Dutse,Jahun,BirninKudu,Gaya, Hadejia,Keffin-Hausa,Gumel and Kazaure. Now the old Kano state has been broken into two states, Jigawa and Kano state respec vely. The present Kano state has 46 local governments while Jigawa has 27 local governments. In short, the old Kano state of 1979 now has 73 local governments. Imo state had 22 local governments in 1979. Now Imo state had been broken into Abia and Imo state respec vely. Abia state now has eighteen local governments while Imo state has 28 local governments. In 1979, Rivers state had 10 local governments; now Rivers state has been broken into two, Bayelsa and Rivers. Rivers state has 23 local governments while Bayelsa has 8 local governments. Kaduna state had 14 local governments in 1979, now it has been broken into two Katsina and Kaduna state. Katsina now has 34 local governments while Kaduna has 23 local goverments. Ondo state had 18 local governments in 1979, now it has been broken into Ondo and Eki state. The present Ondo state now has 18 local governments while Eki has 16 local governments. Ogun state apparently one of the few states, that has not been split had 10 local governments in 1979 namely Abeokuta, Odeda, Obafemi-Owode, Ifo-O a,Egbado-North, Egbado- South, Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-North, Ije-
“There will always be constant conflict on creation of local governments in this country as long as states blessed with more local governments earn more than the other states with less local governments. As a way out maybe we should return to the measure adopted in 1963. Maybe that will reduce conflict just maybe”
UK-Based Nigerians Launch Initiative To Eradicate Malaria In Nigeria P 2
PERSPECTIVE
By ERIC TENIOLA Lingering Crisis Over Local Govt Creation bu-East and Ijebu-Remo. The same Ogun state now has 20 local govenments. Mid-Western Region was created in June 1973 following an act of the Parliament. The region was renamed Bendel state on May 27, 1967. In 1979, the state had 19 local governments namely Oshimili, Oredo,Okpebho,Isoko,Ethiope, Bomadi, Burutu,Okpe, Warri, Orhionmwon, Ovia,Etsako, Ika, Agbazilo, Owan,Ughelli, Aniocha, Akoko-Edo and Ndokwa. Now the state has been split into two, Edo and Delta states. Edo has 20 local governments while Delta has 25 local governments. In 1989, we had 589 local governments in Nigeria. We now have 774 local governments. The last exercise on the crea on of local governments in Nigeria was carried out by late General Sani Aba-
STRIKER
cha, in 1995 when he appointed Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo (86) as the Chairman of the panel. Chief Mbanefo, a Chartered Accountant later became Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United Na ons during the tenure of President Olusegun Obasanjo. The Secretary of the panel then was Dr. Adamu Fika, now Chairman of the the Na onal Assembly Commission. Other members of the panel were Mrs. Adefemi Abeke Taire nee Williams, former Secretary to the Lagos government but married to Chief Torch Oritsewehinmi Taire who died October 15 last year at the age of 81, Chief Kunle Oluwasannmi from Ipetu-Ijesha, Osun State and brother to Professor Hezekiah Oluwasanmi, former Vice-Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
On December 16 1997, General Abacha appointed Chief Oluwasanmi, a former Custom Officer to replace Professor Iyawose Hagher as Minister of State for Power and Steel. The other members also include Mr. El- Nathan from Adamawa state, Alhaji Kofar Katsina, Chief Audu Ogbeh, now Minister for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Kufobai,Obong Umana O. Umana, General Peter Ademokhai(rtd.), former General officer Commanding First Mechanised Division Kaduna. There will always be constant conflict on crea on of local governments in this country as long as states blessed with more local governments earn more than the other states with less local governments. As a way out maybe we should return to the measure adopted in 1963. Maybe that will reduce conflict just maybe. Sec on 140 of the 1963 cons tu on (1) There shall be paid by the Federa on to each Region a sum equal to fi y percent of –(a)The proceeds of any royalty received by the Federa on in respect of any minerals extracted in that region; and (b)Any mining rents derived by the Federa on from within that Region (2) The Federa on shall credit to the Distributable Pool Account a sum equal to thirty per cent of — (a) the proceeds of any royalty received by the Federa on in respect of minerals extracted in any Region; and (b) any mining rents derived by the
•Read full article on www.osundefender.com •Eric Teniola, a former director at the presidency, wrote from Lagos.
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Start Now: Make Your Voices Heard
O
N every subject ma er, from football to democracy and governance, almost every Nigerian (from teenage up) is an “expert!” Nigerians have strong opinions on almost every societal problem on which they also have readymade soluons. Across pubs, newsstands, worship places and all sorts of social gatherings, you can hear their loud voices on different issues that catches the day’s fancy. However loud the voices are, are they truly heard? If heard at all by those who should hear, is a en on paid to the opinions much else given due considera on and acted upon? Individuals may rise to prominent social status that makes their opinions powerful and hard to dismiss, Prof Wole Soyinka and Rtd. General TY Danjuma, for good instances. However well the opinions of such statesmen approximate the collec ve wishes, the powers-that-be in any clime have a way of quie ng them down. Those who are keen to make their voices heard can always do so, and like we men oned in a previous ar cle, the primary thing to do is have solid knowledge on the subject at hand. In poli cs, we have said a study of all the Rule Books, beginning with the Cons tu on of Nigeria, is the way to go. A er the cons tu on, there are several other rules and regula on books that must come next, among which are The Electoral Act and the INEC Guidelines for poli cal par es and elec on conducts. Once thus equipped with these and general knowl-
edge of society, you are good to go. Every adult (above 18 years of age) is duty bound to be aware of his or her rights and du es as ci zens. Once you reach that age and beyond, you are either in ter ary schools, working or unemployed. At all levels, there are associa ons formed to look a er your interests. From your immediate community, the Landlord/Tenants Associaons, The Community Development Associa on, The Associa on at Township levels, The Students Union, Alumni Associa on and Old Students Associa ons, Trades Unions and Market Associa ons, Religious and Cultural Associa ons, Farmers Associa ons, Youth Associa ons, Women Groups, et cetera, you need to take a good look around and develop interest in the ac vi es of associa ons that capture your loca on. It is by a ending the mee ngs and contribu ng to the proceedings of these associa ons that you build a voice that increasingly ma er, and eventually join in acons that posi vely help the cause. If you are not in any of these associa ons, join now. If you are already in there, don’t settle down as just a quite number. Make your voice heard sensibly, learn from others, grow in influence and grow the influence of the associa on. The only way to grow is by seeking and accep ng responsibili es! Governance and Democracy is not a 4-Yearly Elec on Day affair. Poli cs is played every day, right from the family and the neighbourhood all the way to Aso Rock Villa. Having played commendable roles
at these grassroots associa ons, the next level is to really make your voice ma er in poli cs itself, and this too must start at the grassroots level. When it comes to this, the Party is all in all because in Nigeria it is the party that must provide candidates for elec ons. There is absolutely no way of ever being elected into government posi ons outside being presented by the Party. There is a be er chance of being appointed without being a card carrying party member, s ll such individual must have played considerable role for the party, indirectly. His or her voice and ac ons elsewhere, along with professional competence must have ma ered, which is why it is key to make your voice heard in influen al associa ons to the extent they make posi ve impact. In conclusion, absence of popular parcipa on is not the only problem of democracy and governance in Nigeria but it is a major one to be addressed. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. When there is a disciplined collecon of reasonable voices, the chances of ignoring them, when they strongly ar culate a progressive voice in a legi mate and legal way, is slim. Therefore, start by taking a stand henceforth, get all the knowledge you need of the rules book and the society, belong to associa ons you should belong and join the party of your choice and begin to make your voices heard and take ac ve part in building be er communi es, LGAs, States and the Na on. “Stop agonising, start organising.”
OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. All correspondence to the Asst. News Editor, YUSUF OKETOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050. Website: www.osundefender.com Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, osundefenderhq@gmail.com