Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring that he will remain a member of the party regardless of emerging political coalitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Makinde made this known on Friday during a crucial meeting of the Southwest PDP caucus held at the Olusoji Adagunodo Southwest Zonal Secretariat of the party in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The meeting brought together key party leaders to discuss pressing issues affecting the zone, with particular focus on the continued withholding of local government allocations meant for Osun State by the Federal Government.
Speaking during the gathering, Governor Makinde dismissed any perceived threats posed by newly formed political coalitions aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that the PDP in the Southwest remains united and focused.
“We want the whole world to know that PDP in the Southwest is united; we are together,” he declared. “Coalition is not a threat to the PDP. Who are the people in these coalitions? Many of them have been in either the PDP or APC before. What exactly is new about them?”
He further questioned the credibility of those forming new alliances, saying, “Are we supposed to believe they have repented or now have something new to offer the people just because they’ve switched parties again? These are the questions Nigerians should be asking.”
Using the party’s Ibadan zonal secretariat as a metaphor, the governor added, “This building here is PDP’s Southwest house. If the roof is leaking, as leaders, are we going to abandon it and go elsewhere for shelter? No. We will remain here, fix the leak, and show the people that we are responsible and committed to their interests.”
Makinde emphasized that the PDP is not only staying intact but is also growing stronger despite political distractions. He reiterated that his loyalty lies firmly with the PDP, noting that any future political engagements would be within the party’s structure.
Touching on the withholding of Osun’s local government allocations, Makinde described the action by the Federal Government as unconstitutional and harmful to the people’s welfare. The meeting’s communiqué echoed this sentiment, condemning the development as “a violation of the rights and well-being of the people of Osun State.”
Also speaking through his deputy, Kola Adewusi, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, reaffirmed his own allegiance to the PDP. He dismissed speculations that he was part of any coalition plans ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing that he remains fully committed to the party’s vision and leadership.
In the communiqué read by the PDP Southwest Zonal Publicity Secretary, Chief Sanya Atofarati, the party commended both Governor Makinde and Governor Adeleke for their unwavering efforts in stabilizing the PDP in the region. It urged all party members and organs to remain steadfast and focused, particularly in preparation for the forthcoming National Convention.
“The PDP in the Southwest is solid and unshaken,” the communiqué stated. “We appreciate the leadership roles played by Governor Makinde and Governor Adeleke. Their dedication has been instrumental in ensuring the unity and strength of our party.”
The party also distanced itself from any reported coalition talks, stating clearly, “We are not part of the said coalition and urge all PDP members to remain united and resolute.”
With internal solidarity being emphasized and party discipline reasserted, the PDP in the Southwest has sent a clear message: it remains a formidable force with no intention of being swayed by transient political alliances.
