Makinde Debunks Speculation of Party Switch, Reiterates Commitment to PDP

Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State, has put to rest rumors of a potential exit from the Peoples Democratic Party, affirming his unwavering dedication to the party.

He made this declaration while speaking to PDP stakeholders from all 33 Local Government Areas of the state, who had gathered at the Local Government House Secretariat in Ibadan, the state capital, on Monday.

This statement comes on the heels of a meeting between Makinde, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, and former Bayelsa State governor Senator Seriake Dickson, who were hosted by Rabiu Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, in Kano State, just a few days prior.

Makinde reassured party members that the PDP remains a viable force, emphasizing that despite current challenges, the party will not disintegrate and will actively participate in the 2027 general elections.

He countered speculations about the PDP's demise, saying "Those saying PDP will die are mistaken" and reaffirming the party's presence in the 2027 elections, where they will field candidates for all elective positions, from state to national level, with the aim of emerging victorious.

Makinde stressed the importance of unity within the party, urging stakeholders to set aside their differences and work towards building consensus ahead of the elections.

He instructed party leaders across different zones to convene meetings aimed at resolving disputes and agreeing on mutually acceptable arrangements, noting that "They want to take Oyo State at all costs, but it is our responsibility to ensure we bend our rules where necessary to accommodate one another".

The governor announced that National Assembly members and first-term members of the state House of Assembly will receive automatic tickets, with considerations also being made for returning members based on existing agreements, including rotational arrangements.

He explained that while first-term lawmakers in the state Assembly would be granted automatic tickets, second-term lawmakers may be allowed to seek a third term in certain cases, and in other instances, individuals may choose not to return, as the party prepares for a fiercely contested election.

Makinde expressed confidence in the party's ability to emerge victorious, framing the upcoming election as a crucial battle for the future of democracy and future generations, saying "This battle is not just about 2027; it is about the future of democracy and future generations".

He also emphasized that success is often achieved through struggle, but expressed optimism about the party's chances, asking "Can we fight through this? Yes. Can we win? Absolutely".

Meanwhile, Makinde reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP, along with that of his political structure, declaring the party as the platform for all electoral contests ahead of the 2027 general elections, during a high-level stakeholders' meeting held at the State Secretariat on Monday.

At the meeting, which brought together party leaders, elected officials, and key stakeholders to discuss the political roadmap for the upcoming election cycle, Makinde assured party faithful that all aspirants seeking elective positions in 2027 would contest under the PDP, thereby putting to rest speculations about possible defections or alternative platforms.

The governor further revealed that the party would adopt a consensus-based approach in the selection of candidates, emphasizing unity and internal cohesion as essential to sustaining the PDP's dominance in the state.