Wike’s aide Lere Olayinka fires again at Makinde over vagabond remark

Editor-in-chiefFebruary 3, 20263 Mins read40

Wike’s aide Lere Olayinka fires again at Makinde over vagabond remark

Wike’s Aide Lere Olayinka Fires Back at Makinde Over Vagabond Remark

Introduction

A fresh political controversy has erupted between the camps of two prominent Nigerian politicians, with Nyesom Wike’s media aide Lere Olayinka launching another verbal attack on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The dispute centers around Makinde’s recent characterization of Wike and other members of a PDP faction as “vagabonds,” sparking a heated exchange that highlights the ongoing factional disputes within Nigeria’s main opposition party.

Key Points

Governor Seyi Makinde labeled Wike and PDP faction members as "vagabonds" during a party event
The comment came after Wike declared himself a member of the PDP in Oyo State
Lere Olayinka, Wike's media aide, responded by calling Makinde a "political vagabond"
The exchange reflects deeper factional divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party
Historical context shows both politicians have switched party affiliations in the past

Background

The controversy stems from a recent statement made by Nyesom Wike during a PDP National Executive Council meeting, where he asserted his membership in the PDP structure in Oyo State, which is led by Governor Seyi Makinde. This declaration did not sit well with Makinde, who has been positioning himself as a key figure in the party’s national leadership.

The tension between these two political figures represents a broader schism within the PDP, with various factions competing for control and influence. Wike, who previously served as Governor of Rivers State, has maintained significant political clout even after his appointment as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Makinde, on the other hand, has been consolidating his power base in the South-West region of Nigeria.

Analysis

Governor Makinde’s use of the term “vagabond” to describe Wike and other PDP members carries significant weight in Nigerian political discourse. The Yoruba proverb he referenced – “should you see a region or compound that is peaceful, the vagabond in that region has not grown up” – suggests that internal party conflicts are a natural part of political maturation.

However, this characterization backfired when Wike’s aide Lere Olayinka turned the term against Makinde, labeling him a “political vagabond” in his own right. Olayinka’s response was particularly pointed, highlighting Makinde’s history of switching political affiliations:

– In 2007, when Makinde failed to secure the PDP ticket for Senate, he joined the ANPP
– In 2015, after failing to get the PDP gubernatorial ticket, he moved to the SDP
– Now, with his expulsion from the PDP and a court nullification of his “Ibadan Amala Kanifa” (a reference to his political stronghold), questions arise about his next political move

This exchange reveals the complex web of political alliances and rivalries that characterize Nigerian politics, where party loyalty often takes a backseat to personal and regional interests.

Practical Advice

For political observers and analysts, this controversy offers several important lessons:

1. **Track Political Histories**: Understanding politicians’ past party affiliations and switches can provide valuable context for current disputes

2. **Recognize Regional Dynamics**: The Yoruba proverb used by Makinde underscores the importance of cultural context in Nigerian politics

3. **Monitor Party Factions**: The PDP’s internal divisions reflect broader challenges facing Nigeria’s opposition parties

4. **Consider Legal Implications**: The mention of court nullifications suggests that legal battles often accompany political disputes

5. **Follow Social Media**: As demonstrated by Olayinka’s Facebook response, social media has become a crucial battleground for political messaging

FAQ

**Q: What sparked the latest controversy between Wike and Makinde?**
A: The dispute began when Wike declared himself a member of the PDP in Oyo State, which Governor Makinde leads, prompting Makinde to call Wike and others “vagabonds.”

**Q: Why did Lere Olayinka call Makinde a “political vagabond”?**
A: Olayinka highlighted Makinde’s history of switching political parties when he couldn’t secure desired positions, suggesting inconsistency in his political allegiance.

**Q: What does “Ibadan Amala Kanifa” refer to?**
A: This appears to be a reference to Makinde’s political stronghold or base in Ibadan, with “Amala Kanifa” being a local delicacy, symbolizing his local support.

**Q: How does this controversy affect the PDP?**
A: The public dispute between prominent party members highlights the ongoing factional divisions within the PDP, potentially weakening the party’s unity and electoral prospects.

**Q: What are the legal implications mentioned in the controversy?**
A: Olayinka references a court nullification, suggesting that legal challenges are part of the political maneuvering between these factions.

Conclusion

The exchange between Lere Olayinka and Seyi Makinde over the “vagabond” remark represents more than just a personal feud between politicians. It encapsulates the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly within the opposition PDP. The controversy highlights issues of party loyalty, regional politics, and the often transactional nature of Nigerian political alliances.

As the 2027 elections approach, such public disputes may become more frequent as politicians position themselves for future contests. The ability of the PDP to manage these internal conflicts will be crucial for its viability as a national opposition party. Meanwhile, supporters and critics alike will be watching closely to see how this particular feud develops and what it might mean for the broader political landscape in Nigeria.