By Ghazali Ibrahim 
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has criticized what he described as the concentration of governance benefits in selected parts of the country, stating that national leaders must focus on solving problems affecting all Nigerians, not just a privileged few.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, April 15, Makinde expressed concern that governance at the national level has become too narrowly focused, leaving many Nigerians behind.
“We want a situation where everybody in every corner of the country is considered once you’re at the national level,” the governor said.
“Are you able to make the lives of our people better across the country, not just for a section of the country — not just for, I am sorry to say, maybe a gang in Lagos?”
Makinde emphasized that the goal of leadership should be to address pressing issues such as hunger and hardship across the nation.
“Have we reduced hunger in the land? Are people hungry? What exactly should we be looking at in the future? Those are issues we have to address as leaders,” he said.
He warned against “stunt politics,” urging fellow politicians to focus on meaningful governance that directly improves the lives of citizens.
“We have to look at Nigerians. What do Nigerians want? Are they happy? Are we just playing stunt politics or are we focusing on solving the problems facing Nigerians?” Makinde queried.
Reiterating his belief in his leadership abilities, the governor also declared that he has what it takes to lead Nigeria.
“I don’t have any doubt that I have the capacity to occupy the highest office in this land, and I have what it takes,” he said.
Makinde’s remarks come amid rising public dissatisfaction over the economic conditions in the country and growing debate about the direction of national leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
