Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, today, urged Nigeria’s political and social elite to forge a consensus on steering the country toward stability and progress, emphasizing the urgent need to move beyond the winner-takes-all mentality in governance.
Speaking at the launch of former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s new book, Headlines & Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined An Administration, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Makinde highlighted the contrast between ordinary Nigerians’ unity and the divisions perpetuated by the country’s leadership.
Makinde said, “My experience shows that ordinary Nigerians already share a common desire, to be proud citizens of this nation. But the elite, driven by personal ambitions, often divide the country along ethnic, religious, and political lines.”
Makinde stressed that Nigeria’s founding leaders deliberately embraced federalism and multi-party democracy to accommodate its multi-ethnic makeup.
Reflecting on contemporary challenges, he argued that the problems Nigeria faces today require fresh solutions, not a return to the approaches of the past.
“The key question now is: what is the problem we face today? We must identify it and design solutions that prevent the politics of ‘winner-takes-all,’” the governor said.
While praising Mohammed for capturing his experiences in government, Makinde described the gathering as a rare platform where Nigerians from diverse backgrounds could engage constructively. He underscored that the event transcended partisan divides, noting, “I am not here representing any party. This is about Nigerians coming together.”
Makinde’s remarks echoed the keynote delivered by Professor Afolabi, former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, who highlighted the importance of elite consensus in addressing national challenges.
The governor concluded that the way forward requires inclusive dialogue, thoughtful policies, and political arrangements that ensure no single group monopolizes power, positioning elite collaboration as essential for Nigeria’s future.
