The recent political utterances and actions of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, particularly his open embrace of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a so-called alternative platform, represent not just a political shift, but a blatant betrayal of trust, legacy, and the man who made him.
For decades, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not only Ogbeni Aregbesola’s political benefactor; he was his backbone, mentor, and unwavering supporter. From commissioner to governor and beyond, every stage of Ogbeni Aregbesola’s political rise bore the imprint of Tinubu’s sacrifice and support. To now turn around and attack the very foundation that built him, under the guise of “issue-based politics” is both disingenuous and dishonorable.
Ogbeni Aregbesola’s veiled rhetoric against the current administration and his call to “ask if Nigerians are better off today” is hypocritical. He was a key figure in the APC government for years. He sat in council, shaped policies, and influenced governance. If the people are truly worse off today, then he bears a part of that responsibility, not an escape route through a new platform.
It is politically dishonest to paint the ADC as a messianic force while ignoring the opportunistic nature of its sudden alliances. Nigerians are not fools. They know the difference between genuine opposition and a desperate attempt to remain relevant after falling out with one’s political base.
Loyalty, legacy, and truth still matter in politics. Aregbesola’s move is not one of courage or conviction, it is a calculated act of ingratitude toward a man who gave him everything.
Nigeria needs builders, not betrayers. History will remember who stood firm during the storms and who jumped ship when their personal ambitions were no longer being served.