A leading governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has weighed in on the recent communiqué issued at the opposition leaders’ summit held in Ibadan, calling for urgent and decisive action to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic space.
In a statement made available to journalists, Ajadi said the resolutions reached at the summit reflect growing national concern over the direction of governance, stressing that moments like this demand bold leadership and principled intervention.
He urged Governor Seyi Makinde and other prominent opposition figures to “swiftly move beyond rhetoric into coordinated action” to defend democratic institutions and restore public confidence in governance.
According to Ajadi, “This is not a time for hesitation. Leaders with influence and credibility must rise to the occasion. The survival of our democracy depends on decisive, collective action.”
The guber hopeful also took a swipe at the ruling party, accusing it of double standards and selective amnesia. He noted that many of those now intolerant of dissent were once at the forefront of mass protests and resistance during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
“It is troubling that the same political actors who once held the Jonathan administration to ransom through sustained protests and public pressure now frown at opposition voices. Nigerians can clearly see the hypocrisy,” he stated.
Ajadi described the current political climate as one that requires vigilance, unity among opposition forces, and a renewed commitment to democratic ideals. He maintained that constructive engagement, not suppression of dissent, remains the hallmark of a healthy democracy.
He further commended the organisers of the Ibadan summit for providing a platform for dialogue, consultation, and consensus-building, adding that such engagements must translate into actionable strategies that protect democratic values and promote accountability.
“As we approach future electoral cycles, the emphasis must be on credibility, inclusiveness, and respect for the rule of law. Nigeria’s democracy must not only be preserved but strengthened,” Ajadi added.
The opposition summit in Ibadan had brought together key political leaders, stakeholders, and civil society actors, all of whom reiterated the need for unity and strategic collaboration in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic future.
