By Muhammad Mamman
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said Nigeria has felt a noticeable shift since the departure of former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, admitting that governance at the centre no longer feels the same.
Governor Makinde made the remark while reflecting on Osinbajo’s tenure as Vice President, praising his leadership style, intellect and steady influence during his eight years in office. According to the governor, Osinbajo brought calm, balance and a strong sense of constitutional order to the role.
“I miss Professor Yemi Osinbajo as Vice President. Things are not the same again,” Makinde said, noting that the former Vice President’s presence helped stabilise decision-making at critical moments in the country’s recent history.
Makinde highlighted Osinbajo’s accessibility, collaborative approach and respect for democratic principles, describing him as a bridge-builder who worked effectively across party lines and institutions of government. He added that Osinbajo’s legal background and deep understanding of governance contributed significantly to policy coordination within the executive.
The Oyo State governor also recalled Osinbajo’s leadership during periods when he acted as President, saying those moments demonstrated competence, clarity and a firm commitment to the rule of law.
Osinbajo served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 2015 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari. Since leaving office, he has largely stayed out of partisan politics, focusing on academic, legal and international engagements.
Makinde’s comments have sparked fresh public discussion about leadership continuity and the evolving dynamics within Nigeria’s federal executive, with many observers weighing the impact of Osinbajo’s exit on governance and policy direction.
