Editorial | The Merit Newspaper
In a political season often defined by rivalry, suspicion, and divisive rhetoric, a simple handshake can carry a powerful message. The meeting between Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at the opposition leaders’ summit in Ibadan may appear routine. Yet, in Nigeria’s charged political climate, it is anything but ordinary.
At the Banquet Hall of the Government House on April 25, 2026, both men—aspirants with ambitions for the same office—shared a cordial moment, smiling and exchanging pleasantries. This image stands in stark contrast to the hostility that too often defines grassroots politics, where supporters, and sometimes hired thugs, interpret political competition as a call to conflict.
For the electorate, this moment is instructive. Democracy is not warfare; it is a contest of ideas. When political leaders demonstrate maturity and mutual respect, they send a signal that elections should be decided by policies, competence, and vision—not intimidation or violence. Voters must take a cue from this: your loyalty to a candidate should never translate into hostility toward your neighbour.
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For political actors and their foot soldiers, the message is even more direct. Violence carried out in the name of politics ultimately undermines the very system that gives politicians their legitimacy. A handshake between rivals is a reminder that today’s opponent could be tomorrow’s ally. History has repeatedly shown that Nigerian politics is fluid; alliances shift, and yesterday’s adversaries often sit at the same table. Why then should supporters fight battles that their leaders themselves are unwilling to wage?
Beyond symbolism, such gestures reinforce the urgent need for issue-based campaigns in Oyo State—campaigns that focus on sustaining and deepening the gains of the current administration led by Governor Seyi Makinde. With notable strides recorded in infrastructure renewal, economic growth, and social welfare, the conversation ahead of the next election should centre on how to consolidate these achievements and ensure continuity of good governance. Rather than descending into personality clashes or partisan rivalry, political actors must engage the electorate on practical strategies to build on the existing progress and move the state forward.
There is also a lesson here for political parties. Internal democracy, tolerance, and respect for opposition voices are the building blocks of a stable polity. When aspirants from different platforms can engage respectfully, it raises the bar for political engagement across the board.
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Ultimately, the handshake between Ajadi and Adegoke is more than a photograph; it is a statement. It challenges political thuggery, discourages electoral violence, and encourages a culture of civility. As Oyo State inches closer to another electoral cycle, stakeholders—leaders, supporters, and voters alike—must embrace this spirit.
Because at the end of the day, governance is not about defeating an enemy; it is about serving the people.
