Makinde Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP Amid Defections, Declares Party Will Stand With Nigerians

IBADAN – Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing rumours of a possible defection. The governor made this declaration during the official inauguration of the newly elected PDP South West zonal executives at the party’s zonal secretariat, Soji Adagunodo House, in Ibadan.

Amid mounting concerns over recent defections, including those by governors and high-ranking officials, Makinde emphasized that the PDP remains rooted in the aspirations of the Nigerian people. “People have been asking where this party is heading with all the defections,” he stated. “Well, I told them we won’t be bothered until hunger itself decamps to the APC. There is hunger in the land, and the people suffering it will decide what 2027 looks like.”

PDP: A Pillar of Institutional Strength in Nigeria

Governor Makinde took a swipe at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of lacking institutional depth. He rebutted the notion that the PDP builds only strong individuals and not structures, asserting that the party’s resilience post-2015 proves otherwise.

“Despite losing federal power in 2015 and enduring multiple internal crises, especially in Oyo State, we emerged victorious in the 2019 and 2023 elections. That’s not just about strong men—it’s about strong institutions,” he said.

He further highlighted the consistency of PDP meetings and institutional processes, contrasting it with the APC. “This is a party that has conducted nearly 300 National Executive Council (NEC) meetings. How many NEC meetings has the APC held since 2019?” Makinde asked rhetorically.

The Oyo Governor also underscored the strategic importance of the South West in Nigeria’s political landscape. “Mark my words, after this event, APC will be scrambling to hold their South West congress because they see what a well-organized party looks like,” he added confidently.

Ijesha North 2027: Pelumi Olajengbesi And The Burden Of Expectations

Unity, Vision, and the Road to 2027

The inauguration event served as more than just a ceremony; it was a reaffirmation of purpose and vision for the PDP in the South West. Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, expressed optimism over the emergence of new leadership in the zone. He called on the new executive to pursue peace, inclusivity, and reconciliation.

“This new team represents a good omen for the South West,” Adeleke said. “Their success will depend on how effectively they can unite our members and bring aggrieved ones back into the fold.”

In his address, PDP National Vice Chairman (South West), Engr. Kamorudeen Ajisafe, acknowledged the democratic integrity of the zonal election and laid out a strategic goal. “The struggle to win the presidency in 2027 will be championed from the South West,” he said, pledging collaboration with state chairmen to strengthen the party.

Ajisafe’s statement resonated strongly with the sentiment in the gathering, signaling the zone’s readiness to take a leading role in PDP’s national ambitions.

Meanwhile, Chief Ladi Adebutu, the PDP’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State, praised the leadership of Makinde and Adeleke for their role in ensuring a peaceful and credible zonal election. He reiterated the need for unity and continued visionary leadership as critical to reclaiming the party’s political dominance in the region.

“Leadership isn’t just about holding office; it’s about vision, collaboration, and inclusivity,” Adebutu said, noting that the PDP’s recent progress in the South West was due to these principles.

The event drew an impressive gathering of PDP leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from across the South West, showcasing a renewed spirit of solidarity and focus.

As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the reaffirmed loyalty of key figures like Governor Makinde signals that the PDP is positioning itself not just as an opposition party, but as a viable alternative that resonates with the needs of ordinary Nigerians.