2026: Gov Adeleke should be ready to hand over — Hon. Rotimi Makinde 

In this exclusive interview with NEWSDIRECT, Hon. Rotimi Makinde, a former member of the House of Representatives (2011–2015), who represented the Ife Federal Constituency in Osun State opens up on Osun politics, his role in APC, the fallout from the 2022 gubernatorial election, the future of SWAGA, and his ongoing political aspirations.

Hon. Makinde, you have been largely silent since your party, APC, lost the 2022 gubernatorial election to Governor Ademola Adeleke of the PDP. Why is this?

As politicians, we often deal with multiple pressing issues and must choose when to speak and when silence is more strategic. Sometimes, it’s better to avoid stoking controversy or revisiting divisive topics, especially when doing so might harm relationships or long-term goals.

What have you been doing over the past 30 months?

I’ve been reflecting deeply, reassessing my political journey and laying the groundwork for a strategic comeback. I’ve been moving “from pillar to pillar,” consulting widely, and preparing with determination for what’s next.

Before the 2022 election, you issued several press statements advising APC leaders against internal division. What’s your perspective now that APC lost?

I’m glad you remember my efforts. I was a passionate advocate for unity and peace, but that stance caused clashes with some party members. Some even labeled me a prophet of doom. I warned that heading into the election divided would cost us dearly, and it did. If you were part of the struggle that led to our victory in 2010, you’d feel the pain of seeing that legacy squandered. I still feel that pain today.

Do you believe APC would have won if your advice had been taken?

Absolutely. There was no justifiable reason for that loss. Governor Oyetola performed admirably, but unfortunately, we placed our hopes in corrupt, self-serving individuals with inflated egos who surrounded the governor.

Despite everything, I delivered my ward, even against the odds and major PDP figures in that area. We must learn from this. It’s clear now that the Federal Government’s stance at the time was not favourable to us. Security forces looked the other way, especially in Ede, where voting went late into the night. But I must say, Governor Oyetola is a true gentleman.

What’s your take on the call for Osun West to produce the next governor in 2026?

We are in a democracy, and every region has the right to aspire. While I’m not a zoning advocate, I believe the best candidate should emerge, regardless of origin. That said, Osun West has many capable leaders: Oyebamiji, Peter Babalola, Benedict Adegboyega, Dotun Babayemi, Adejare Bello, Ogunbiyi, and others. Let the people decide.

Do you support their agitation?

It’s their right. I bear no malice. Every zone is entitled to present its best. I only advocate for competent leadership.

Can APC realistically unseat Governor Adeleke in 2026?

If Governor Adeleke were a realist, he’d already be preparing to hand over. If we choose the right candidate, PDP will be history. 

What’s your relationship with former Governors Aregbesola and Oyetola?

Very cordial. Many people don’t know that Governor Oyetola is my in-law, while Ogbeni Aregbesola introduced me to politics. It’s painful to see the rift between them. Sadly, some people are using my association with both men against me. Just a photo with Ogbeni is twisted into false narratives. But I remain loyal to APC. I’ve never participated in any secret meetings against Oyetola or the party. I’ve moved on from the controversies. Aregbesola is no longer in APC; Oyetola is our leader. No confusion on my part.

Several APC aspirants have emerged for the 2026 governorship, Senator Ajibola Bashiru (SRJ), Benedict Alabi (BOA), and Bola Oyebamiji. Thoughts?

They’re all qualified. As a native of Ile-Ife, I won’t speak negatively about any of them. When the time is right and the party chooses, I’ll align as a loyal party man. I also want to commend Osun APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal. He’s working hard to rebuild the party, and I want to support him. 

Will you contest?

In the APC, you don’t lobby desperately. Your track record speaks for you. If the leadership believes in me for any role, I’m ready. I believe I’m qualified.

What advice would you give the APC for 2026?

Unity is non-negotiable. We must avoid past mistakes. We were better in governance, but Adeleke’s administration uses nepotism as state policy. We must forgive, reconcile, and bring everyone onboard to defeat our true opponent. Leaders must be respected, and this idea that a few people alone can win elections must be discarded.

Our reward system needs urgent reform. For instance, how do I explain to Ile-Ife voters that I, a loyal APC man, was left unrewarded by the federal government? My people are disillusioned. And it’s not just about me, Ifeland has scholars, professionals, and loyal party members who’ve been sidelined. Still, many of us remain committed to the progressive cause. Hope lives on.

What are your future political plans?

I remain unfulfilled politically. I’m committed to service and will continue offering myself for elective roles under the APC, God willing.

SWAGA, which you helped found, seems quiet heading toward 2027. What’s going on?

I don’t speak for SWAGA officially, but let me be honest, the poor reward system is demoralising. We championed BAT in 2020 when others were undecided. We risked a lot during COVID, going around the South West and North Central promoting Asiwaju. Today, many who joined late are the ones being rewarded. I’m hurt by the lack of recognition. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is known for loyalty to his foot soldiers. I still believe he’ll remember us. This is a hard political lesson, sometimes, you work like an elephant and eat like an ant. It should serve as a warning to those campaigning hard for aspirants today: stay humble, only God rewards truly.

You’ve been out of the National Assembly for nearly a decade, yet remain politically relevant. What’s the secret?

It’s my loyalty to APC and my solid track record. In my 48 months in the House, I made tangible impacts, schools, scholarships, cars, tricycles, employment, hospitals, mosques, churches. I’ve held roles in the Judicial Service Commission, election committees, and human rights commissions. I brought two federal agencies to Osun. I stay close to my community and am active across the media. I own two FM stations (Oodua FM in Ile-Ife and another in Lagos/Ogun).

Despite challenges, gossip, and sabotage, I’ve stayed grounded and loyal. I don’t drink, gossip, or engage in frivolous activities. I forgive easily and stay close to my God and family. I’m a devout Muslim from a respected lineage, and I believe in leaving matters to Allah.