Pa Ayo Opadokun Reveals Why Tinubu Is Different From Past Nigerian Presidents

According to Pa Ayo Opadokun, General Secretary of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and a pro-democracy activist, President Bola Tinubu is the first Nigerian president who, in his view, was not sponsored by a military or civilian cabal to reach the highest political office in the country.

Opadokun made the statement during an interview on Channels Television on Saturday, October 10, 2026, while discussing Tinubu’s emergence as president and the role powerful groups have played in Nigeria’s political history.

Speaking during the interview, the NADECO chieftain stressed his position, saying, “I must say again and again, this is the first person who was not sponsored by a military cabal or civilian cabal to the presidency.”

His comments reflect his personal assessment of the circumstances surrounding Tinubu’s rise to power. By referring to military and civilian cabals, Opadokun drew attention to his view that influential groups have often played significant roles in determining who occupies the country’s highest political office.

Opadokun is known for his involvement in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, particularly during the period of military rule. As a member of NADECO, he was associated with efforts to restore democratic governance and promote the return of civilian leadership. His background in the struggle for democracy provides context for his comments about political power and the forces that influence leadership in the country.

Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999 after years of military government. Since then, the country has held several presidential elections, with different political parties and candidates competing for the presidency. However, political alliances, influential figures, party structures and financial resources have continued to play important roles in election campaigns and the search for political support.

Tinubu became president after winning the 2023 presidential election as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His victory followed years of political activity and involvement in party organisation and alliances.

Opadokun’s statement adds to discussions about the influence of powerful interests in Nigeria’s democratic process. However, his description of Tinubu as the first president not sponsored by a military or civilian cabal represents his own assessment of the country’s political history, rather than an established conclusion about every presidential transition since independence.

His remarks highlight the continuing debate over how political leaders emerge, who supports their campaigns and how much influence powerful individuals and groups have over Nigeria’s democracy.

(Watch the video from 12:28 to 12:41 minutes)

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