Sanusi Faults Makinde’s NEC Decision, Says Political Differences Must Not Hurt Oyo

Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the Okanlomo Oodua and Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland, has faulted Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s reported decision to stop attending meetings of the National Economic Council (NEC), warning that political differences must not undermine the state’s interests.

Sanusi said the council remained an important platform for economic cooperation and policy coordination between the Federal Government and state governments, stressing that Oyo State must continue to have an effective voice in national economic deliberations.

In a statement, he said the NEC was more than a gathering of political officeholders, describing it as an avenue through which states could articulate their economic interests and development priorities.

While acknowledging Makinde’s right to express dissatisfaction with any process he considers ineffective, Sanusi said responsible leadership required the maturity to remain engaged with institutions despite disagreements.

He said the key question was how the state would ensure effective representation at the council despite any political or administrative differences between Makinde and the Federal Government.

Sanusi noted that farmers needed opportunities, young people required employment, businesses needed an enabling environment, while communities deserved better infrastructure, healthcare, education and sustainable economic development.

According to him, these needs transcend political affiliations, personal disagreements and electoral considerations.

He therefore urged Makinde to clarify how Oyo State’s interests were being represented at NEC meetings and to reconsider the value of his personal participation in the constitutional forum.

“This is not a call for political submission, nor is it an attempt to diminish the Governor’s constitutional authority. It is a sincere appeal for institutional cooperation, political maturity and the preservation of Oyo State’s long-term interests,” he said.

Sanusi added that political differences should not become barriers to economic opportunities for residents, noting that leaders should be remembered for the institutions they strengthened and the opportunities they secured for future generations.

He called for continued cooperation in the interest of Oyo State and Nigeria, insisting that the state’s interests must remain a priority.