…stresses the urgent need for economic diversification
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Nigeria Conference of Speakers, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has criticized Nigerian political establishment for the multifaceted challenges that have continued to bedevil the nation.
He lamented the nation’s deepening crisis of governance, insecurity, and lack of ideological direction, calling for a new and more inclusive approach to governance.
He blamed Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges on the failure of the political elite to uphold ethical practices, while proposing far-reaching reforms including the decentralization of security to the sub-nationals and urgent economic diversification.
Speaking while featuring as a guest during a policy-focused Live broadcast engagement at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Ibadan, on Tuesday, the Eruwa-born lawmaker decried the self-serving nature of Nigeria’s political class, stating that the nation’s problems are rooted not in a lack of capacity but in a persistent culture of political expediency and abandonment of sustainable initiatives.
“Nigeria’s challenges are not accidental. They are largely the result of political interests overriding national interests. We have failed to adopt a consistent approach to governance.
“Every new administration tosses away the programs of its predecessor. This lack of continuity is a major obstacle to sustainable development, and that is why we feel very lucky in Oyo state with what the governor is doing since assumption of office,” Ogundoyin said.
Ogundoyin, visibly concerned about the nation’s security crisis, described the loss of over 700,000 lives due to violent conflict and criminality as a “national tragedy” and called on the federal government to take urgent action.
“The federal structure is overstretched. Sub-nationals must be empowered to play a critical role in internal security,” he said, while renewing call for the creation of state police.
“The idea that governors will misuse state police is unfounded. Look at how multi-layer policing works in the United States for instance,” he declared.
He also queried the government’s failure to publish the names of those allegedly sponsoring insecurity, suggesting political interests are shielding perpetrators.
Ogundoyin commended Governor Seyi Makinde for what he described as a value-driven and morally guided approach to leadership. He highlighted the state’s short-term (2019–2027) and long-term (2019–2040) development plans as strategic steps toward sustainable growth.
He made inference to Governor Seyi Makinde’s popular mantra “Where infrastructure goes, development follows,” saying: “The governor has shown us what is possible with vision and moral clarity. From pension clearance to infrastructure to political mentorship, he’s top-notch.”
He specifically cited the accelerated development in the state, and attributed it to the synergy between the executive and legislative arms of governments.
“Oyo State Assembly is not guided by public perception, but by logic, data, and reason. That’s why we have passed over 140 bills in recent years since we came on board,” he added.
On infrastructure, Ogundoyin urged for the fast-tracked completion of the Ido–Eruwa road, stressing its importance to geopolitical integration and economic growth within the state.
Ogundoyin didn’t hold back in criticizing the “ship-jumping” culture among Nigerian politicians, condemning the lack of ideological commitment among party members.
“Too many political leaders lack ethical responsibility. They jump from party to party without values. Governance must be based on conviction, not convenience,” he said.
Speaking on the controversial six-year single-term proposal floated by Governor Makinde, Ogundoyin expressed full support.
“Governor Makinde doesn’t just speak; he speaks with intentionality. A six-year single term will eliminate re-election distractions and allow for long-term planning,” he stated.
He also responded to recent political realignments, including instances where PDP members were seen working with APC-led government at the national level.
He noted that the governor is also engaging a former Commissioner of finance in the state and a member of the All Progressive Congress (APC), because of the value being derived the opposition member in the interest of an overall development of the state.
“Governance transcends political affiliation. What matters is value. If someone can deliver value, it doesn’t matter their party,” he said, adding that the PDP remains the only formidable threat to the ruling APC if it can put its house in order.
While discussing the 2014 National Conference (CONFAB) and its abandoned recommendations, Ogundoyin said it was a waste of valuable resources not to revisit the outcomes.
He also downplayed calls for new creation of new states, arguing instead for the formulation of a national policy to boost sectoral productivity and ensure resource equitable distribution.
On local government autonomy, he reiterated that the Oyo Assembly voted in favor during the last constitutional amendment and stressed the importance of more states following suit in order to meet the constitutional threshold.
Ogundoyin lauded the creation of regional development commissions and urged continued federal support for such initiatives. He further called attention to the economic hardship triggered by fuel subsidy removal, while lamenting its adverse effect on businesses and livelihoods.
Speaking on his political future, Ogundoyin remained humble and philosophical saying: “Only God knows what the future holds,” he said when asked about the possibility of an Ibarapa native becoming governor.
“But with leadership like Governor Makinde’s and growing integration between Ibadan and Ibarapa, the possibilities are endless.”
Ogundoyin charged Nigerians to be deliberate about their political choices saying, “Leaders don’t fall from the sky. If we want better governance, citizens must wake up and take active roles in shaping their future.”
The Speaker was accompanied by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, Chairman House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters; Hon. Akintunde Olajide. Other lawmakers on the Speakers entourage include Hons. Babajide Gabriel, Olushola Owolabi, Babatunde Taofeeq Kenhinde, Saminu Gbadamosi, Clerk and other top officials of the House.