Despite Obi’s symbolic win in Lagos—a region historically dominated by Tinubu and his political machinery—the broader political landscape in Nigeria remains perilous, especially for outspoken critics and activists. Tinubu, having secured the presidency through victories in key states such as Imo and Ebonyi, now presides over a federal government that critics argue has increasingly tightened its grip on power, suppressing dissent and endangering those who demand transparency and justice.

Activists such as Oreoluwa Adegbite, Omoyele Sowore, Rinu Oduala, and Aisha Yesufu were pivotal in challenging the entrenched political structures through relentless advocacy and voter mobilization. However, the consequences of their activism have been severe, as Nigeria continues to prove politically hazardous for those who dare to speak truth to power.

Oreoluwa Adegbite, who vocally criticized the Lagos political elite and exposed electoral malpractice, remains in exile due to credible threats to his life. His forced absence from Nigeria underscores the dire reality faced by many activists—exile becomes their only viable means to keep the struggle and their voices alive without risking imminent harm.

Similarly, Rinu Oduala, prominent for her courageous stance during the #EndSARS protests, and Aisha Yesufu, a steadfast campaigner against political impunity, continue to face harassment and intimidation, highlighting the perils of activism in today’s Nigeria. The political climate under APC rule, particularly at the federal level, exacerbates these threats, fostering an environment of fear designed to silence critical voices.

Social media platforms, once vibrant spaces for activism and political discourse, have become arenas of intimidation, with the government increasingly scrutinizing and penalizing dissenting opinions. Activists’ safety remains tenuous, their freedoms curtailed by surveillance, threats, and politically motivated harassment.

Moreover, Tinubu’s controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket further intensified societal tensions, leaving minority and opposition groups more vulnerable to marginalization and persecution under the APC’s federal leadership.

As Nigeria attempts to navigate its political future, the sacrifices made by activists who risk their safety and freedom cannot be ignored. The experiences of Adegbite and others illustrate a grim reality—that activism in Nigeria remains fraught with danger, and exile often remains the only path to sustaining their voices in the ongoing fight for democratic accountability. Until fundamental changes occur within Nigeria’s political system, the safety of these courageous voices continues to hang in the balance, highlighting the perilous cost of challenging entrenched political power.