Rauf Aregbesola’s political betrayal of President Tinubu exposes a personal vendetta disguised as opposition. Nigerians won’t forget in 2027
It was with a mix of bemusement and disbelief that we read the recent statement by former Minister of Interior and former Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, now parading himself as the National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
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In Akure, Ondo State, the same man who rose to political stardom through the unwavering support and mentorship of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declared a new political mission: to lead a grand coalition of opposition forces against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
For those who know the story well, this declaration is not just laughable — it is tragic. It is the classic tale of the scorned mentee, whose ambition has grown too wild to be confined by loyalty or gratitude.
Aregbesola’s call for a united opposition front is, on paper, democratic. But in practice, it is nothing short of political heresy.
Let’s revisit the facts. Ogbeni Aregbesola was not just another politician. He was a man molded by Asiwaju Tinubu — handpicked, mentored, empowered, and protected.
When all that was initially sought for him was a Special Adviser role in Lagos, Tinubu elevated him to a full commissioner in one of the most strategic ministries:
Works and Infrastructure. It was a gesture that redefined his political trajectory.
When he aspired to be Governor of Osun, it was Asiwaju who put his weight behind him — funding the campaigns, navigating the legal landmines, and ensuring victory despite the institutional resistance at the time.
Through Tinubu’s support, he governed Osun for eight years and was later rewarded with a ministerial role under the APC administration.
Yet, today, this same man now claims to be building a new political machine to dislodge the party — and the man — that gave him everything.
It is important for Nigerians to understand what this really is: not a patriotic movement, but a personal vendetta. This is not a coalition for good governance, but a coalition of the disgruntled.
ADC is not the voice of progressives; it is becoming the echo chamber for political castaways, driven by jealousy, bitterness, and inflated self-worth.
President Bola Tinubu, by every standard, has demonstrated transformational leadership, courage in decision-making, and unwavering dedication to the progress of Nigeria.
His track record, both as governor and as president, speaks for itself. That Aregbesola — who knows this truth more than most — would turn around to deny it is both shameful and revealing.
Politics must have a soul. When you strip it of loyalty, character, and honour, what you’re left with is not a movement — but a mutiny.
Ogbeni Aregbesola may continue with his dreams. He is free to join forces with whoever shares in his misplaced ambition. But let it be known that the Nigerian people are not deceived.
They see through this charade. And when the time comes — in 2027 — they will stand by the man who has always stood by them.
Also read: Aregbesola launches APC Omoluabi caucus, restates commitment to preserving progressive tradition
President Tinubu will not only return triumphantly, he will also lead this nation into a new era of stability, prosperity, and inclusive development. No amount of political betrayal can stop that.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
