• 23 Jun, 2025
• Faith Kegh
• No comment

Wale Oshun: Politicians Who Defect Are Greedy and Undisciplined.

  Wale Oshun, former House of Representatives Chief Whip and leader of the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), has criticized politicians who switch parties, labeling them as greedy and lacking

discipline. In a wide-ranging interview, he also addressed issues of national importance including June 12, state policing, governance, and the leadership crisis within Afenifere.

      On June 12 and National Betrayal

Oshun emphasized that June 12 represents Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, symbolizing hope and unity. However, these ideals were betrayed by the military, who annulled the results and prevented Moshood Abiola from assuming office. He believes those responsible will ultimately face divine justice and urges Nigerians to focus on moving the nation forward rather than seeking retribution.

      On Political Defections and Nigeria’s One-Party Drift

He condemned political defections, arguing they reflect a lack of ideological commitment and patience. Oshun believes that many view politics as a means of livelihood, not service, and are unwilling to endure discomfort for the sake of democratic growth. He stresses that Nigeria risks becoming a one-party state if opposition parties cannot maintain discipline.

      On Governance and Political Structure

Oshun advocates for a more inclusive system of governance that respects Nigeria’s diversity. He supports the idea of regions adopting governance structures that reflect their cultures — for instance, parliamentary systems for the Yoruba-speaking regions. He also calls for fiscal federalism, where regions control their resources and contribute agreed taxes to the federal government, rather than relying on a centralized system.

      On State Policing and Security

Oshun supports the creation of state and community policing, arguing that insecurity is too widespread for the federal police alone to handle. He criticizes the delay in implementing state policing, especially given the support it has received from Northern governors. According to him, insecurity in farms and rural communities makes this shift urgent.

      On Regional Development Commissions

He sees potential in zonal development commissions, such as the proposed South-West Development Commission. If well-funded and focused, such commissions could prioritize critical areas like power and rail transport, which he sees as essential for revitalizing the South-West’s economy. Oshun believes targeted infrastructure investment could stimulate significant growth.

      On Afenifere’s Leadership Crisis

Oshun attributes Afenifere’s internal conflict to personal rivalries rather than ideological differences. He laments that the organization no longer commands the moral authority it once did, with members now seeking favors instead of offering leadership. He urges Yoruba leaders to reconcile and refocus on their shared goals of public welfare and cultural values.

      On Politics as Livelihood

He criticizes how politics has become a primary source of income for many Nigerians. Oshun notes the absurdity that local politicians can earn more than university professors, calling it a sign of misplaced national priorities.

  Conclusion:
Wale Oshun presents a blunt and thoughtful critique of Nigeria’s political culture. He urges a return to principled leadership, regional autonomy, and people-centered development, especially through better governance, restructuring, and security reforms.

Faith Kegh

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