Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde's Rift with Federal Government

The rift between Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the Federal Government of Nigeria intensified after a kidnapping incident on May 15, 2026, when bandits abducted schoolchildren and a teacher in Oriire Local Government Area. Following a 56-day captivity, security forces successfully rescued the victims.

Governor Makinde celebrated the rescue but faced criticism for allegedly undermining Nigeria's sovereignty. Presidential Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga dismissed Makinde's requests for support, while the Senate passed a resolution cautioning against his conduct.

Despite this, the Oyo State Assembly supported Makinde. The conflict deepened as Makinde publicly expressed regret for backing President Tinubu in the 2023 elections, with reports indicating a lack of communication from Tinubu during the crisis.

The situation reflects broader political tensions within Nigeria, particularly concerning security management and the relationship between state and federal authorities.