By Abiola Olawale
A two-term former Osun State Governor and immediate past Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has been spotted dancing to a politically charged diss song believed to be targeted at President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, ahead of the 2027 Nigerian presidential elections.
The moment was captured in a video made during Aregbesola’s 68th birthday anniversary event in Ilesa, Osun State.
In the viral video, Aregbesola, known for his charismatic character, was seen enjoying the rhythm of the diss song, a move interpreted by many as a subtle jab at his former ally, Tinubu.
The song that was sung in Yoruba can be translated to English as: “Don’t associate with them, just be looking at them; someone whose life is not going well will be looking for accomplices”
The New Diplomat reports that this display comes amid ongoing political realignments in Nigeria.
Recall that Aregbesola’s Omoluabi Progressives recently parted ways with the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal conflicts and the marginalization of its members.
The group’s exit has fueled speculation about Aregbesola’s next political move, with political leaders and opposition leaders such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate, Peter Obi and immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Rivers state governor, Rotimi Amaechi, amongst others reportedly forging political alliance with him ahead 2027.
Also, the fallout between Aregbesola and Tinubu was said to have escalated after the former Osun Governor allegedly refused to support Oyetola’s re-election bid in 2022.
Meanwhile, the video of Aregbesola dancing has ignited a firestorm on social media, where Nigerians have begun debating whether this was a deliberate political statement or simply a lighthearted moment.
Some see it as a calculated move to distance himself from Tinubu’s administration, while others view it as Aregbesola embracing his signature flair for connecting with supporters through music, theatrical moves and dance.
