“Bola Tinubu’s Politics Ensured Survival of Opposition Voices” — Wole Olanipekun, SAN!

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Reported by David Joshua

“Bola Tinubu’s Politics Ensured Survival of Opposition Voices” — Wole Olanipekun, SAN

At the 13th convocation of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) in Ado‑Ekiti, renowned legal practitioner and former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Wole Olanipekun, SAN, credited President Tinubu’s political strategy with preserving pluralism in Nigerian politics. He argued that without Tinubu’s resilience and interventions, Nigeria might have slid into a de facto one‑party state as early as 2023. [1]

Speaking on the theme “Nigeria—Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Imperative of a Sober and Infinitive Recalibration”, Olanipekun recalled that during his tenure as Lagos Governor and subsequent national political leadership, Tinubu upheld space for dissent and opposition. He credited him with fostering the coalition that birthed the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013 and intervening in critical legal battles that protected opposition figures like Rasheed Ladoja from impeachment. [1]

Olanipekun emphasised that:
⁠“Had President Tinubu … succumbed to harassment and intimidation of the then ruling party, Nigeria would have become a one‑party state …”
He also urged the National Assembly to proceed cautiously with any constitutional amendments, suggesting that Nigerian democracy needs time to consolidate. [2]

The commentary has sparked wide interest in the political and legal community, rekindling discussions about the meaning of opposition, party survival, and checks on power in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
Citations:

1. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/10/tinubus-politics-ensured-survival-of-opposition-voices-olanipekun/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. Independent Newspaper Nigeria: independent.ng/tinubus-strong-opposition-politics-saved-buhari-ladoja-olanipekun/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

About The Author

David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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