Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying it has become difficult to speak truth to power under the current government.
Makinde made the remarks on Saturday during a public event in Ibadan attended by several dignitaries, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
He contrasted the present political climate with what he described as a more consultative and open approach during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
According to the governor, disagreement and honest feedback were better accommodated in previous administrations, particularly on major national policies.
Makinde said the handling of recent tax reform bills by the federal government reflected a governance style that limits engagement with stakeholders, including state governors.
He explained that governors had requested broader consultations on the tax bills to allow for careful and collective review.
However, he noted that the bills were forwarded to the National Assembly without adequate engagement, creating concerns over transparency and inclusion.
Makinde said many governors were unaware of the final content passed by lawmakers or what was eventually signed into law.
He described the situation as troubling and said it undermined the principle of cooperative governance within Nigeria’s federal system.
The Oyo State governor also spoke fondly of Osinbajo’s tenure as Vice President and Chairman of the National Economic Council.
He said Osinbajo’s leadership style influenced key decisions he made during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Makinde recalled that during a heated National Economic Council meeting in early 2020, some governors proposed a nationwide lockdown.
He said Osinbajo’s balanced approach guided his decision not to impose a total lockdown in Oyo State at the time.
According to Makinde, the decision helped the state manage public health concerns while reducing economic hardship for residents.
He added that many Nigerians may not fully understand why governance dynamics have changed in recent years.
Makinde stressed that his comments were not politically motivated but reflected genuine concerns about leadership, inclusion, and accountability.
He concluded by saying that open dialogue remains essential for effective governance and national development.
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