In a detailed and candid interview, Senator Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, shares her views on the state of the nation, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the challenges facing Nigeria, and the legacy of Afenifere’s leadership.
—
PDP Defections: A Disconnect Between Politicians and the People
Addressing the recent wave of defections from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy Monday Onyeme, and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa—Senator Bucknor-Akerele dismissed fears of an irreversible collapse of the PDP. She attributed the defections to a widening gap between politicians and the people, noting that many elected officials no longer reflect the will or struggles of ordinary Nigerians. According to her, “Politicians are pursuing personal agendas, ignoring the voices of the people.”
—
PDP Not a Faulty Plane, But Saboteurs Exist Within
While Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom likened the PDP to a faulty aircraft, Senator Kofo disagreed, asserting instead that the party is suffering from internal sabotage. She emphasized the need for party leadership to cleanse the ranks and eliminate those undermining its structure from within.
—
Too Early for Coalitions, Atiku Doesn’t Own PDP
When asked about the anti-Tinubu coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the former senator stated that she currently sees no need for any coalition. She cautioned against premature alliances and stressed that the PDP still remains the only party with grassroots presence across every ward in Nigeria. Furthermore, she emphasized that “Atiku is not the owner of the party. He was merely a candidate.”
—
One-Party State Fears Unfounded but Concerning
Senator Bucknor-Akerele acknowledged growing concerns that Nigeria may be sliding into a one-party state due to the mass movement of politicians into the APC. She, however, maintained that despite surface appearances, Nigeria still has numerous political parties. Nevertheless, she warned that any attempt to weaken political plurality must be resisted.
—
On Insecurity and State Policing
Regarding the recurring violence in Benue and Plateau states, she agreed with the governor of Benue that these attacks go beyond farmer-herder clashes and appear to be part of a systematic attempt to displace indigenous communities. She supported the introduction of state police, arguing that effective policing requires officers who understand local languages, customs, and dynamics. She also noted that existing regional security outfits like Amotekun remain underpowered due to their lack of firearms.
—
Concerns About the National Assembly and Career Politicians
Reflecting on her tenure in the Senate, Bucknor-Akerele expressed dissatisfaction with the current makeup of the National Assembly, saying that many current legislators are career politicians with little professional background. In contrast, she recalled that her time in the Senate was marked by professionalism, patriotism, and dedication.
—
On Tinubu’s Administration: A Continuation of Failure
Despite previously serving as Bola Tinubu’s deputy, Bucknor-Akerele gave a scathing assessment of his presidency. She described the current administration as a continuation of the failures of former President Buhari. “People are starving, losing weight, and calling for help daily,” she lamented. While she clarified she holds no personal grudge against Tinubu, she stated, “I have left him to God for what he did to me.”
—
Afenifere Unity and Legacy of Ayo Adebanjo
Bucknor-Akerele rejected claims of division within Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political group, insisting that perceived cracks are the result of external political manipulation. She emphasized that Pa Ayo Adebanjo remains the legitimate leader following the resignation of Pa Reuben Fasoranti. She fondly recalled her relationship with Adebanjo, describing him as honest, patriotic, and irreplaceable. Though skeptical about finding another leader like him, she remains hopeful.
—
Vision for Nigeria: Restructuring and Regional Autonomy
Looking ahead, Senator Kofo Bucknor-Akerele described her dream Nigeria as one that has been restructured to allow each region to develop at its own pace. She advocated for decentralization to enable people to determine their path to development and prosperity.
—
On Lagos: A State in Decline, Indigenes Marginalized
On the condition of Lagos State, she was critical of what she called poor infrastructure, rising slums, lack of affordable housing, and dilapidated schools. She accused the state government of marginalizing indigenous Lagosians and prioritizing self-interest over public welfare. According to her, “Lagos has become one big slum.”
—
Mobilizing for 2027: Indigenes Must Support the Right Party
Finally, she emphasized that indigenous Lagosians are organizing to support candidates and a party that will truly protect their interests in the 2027 elections.
