Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has strongly reaffirmed his dedication and loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that he will not abandon the party even if others decide to leave, regardless of the emerging coalition movements being formed ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde made this bold declaration during the Southwest PDP caucus meeting, which was held at the Olusoji Adagunodo Southwest Zonal Secretariat in Ibadan. The meeting brought together party leaders and stakeholders to address pressing issues concerning the region and chart a united course for the party's future.
Amid increasing speculations about new political coalitions and possible defections, Governor Makinde expressed unwavering confidence in the strength and unity of the PDP in the Southwest. He questioned the integrity and credibility of those spearheading coalition talks, emphasizing that these political actors had a history of switching allegiances without offering meaningful change.
“Who exactly are the individuals behind this coalition? These are the same people who have been moving from one party to another without any genuine ideological foundation. Does that mean they have transformed or possess new solutions for Nigerians? The answer is no,” Makinde asserted firmly during his address.
“The idea of a coalition does not pose any threat to the PDP. We want it to be known clearly that the PDP in the Southwest stands united, strong, and unwavering. We are moving forward together as one indivisible family,” he added.
During the meeting, the caucus also condemned what it described as the unconstitutional withholding of local government funds in Osun State by higher authorities. The party maintained that this act was detrimental to grassroots development and the welfare of the people.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, who was represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, echoed Makinde’s sentiments. Adeleke reaffirmed his total commitment to the PDP and categorically dismissed any insinuations regarding his alleged involvement in coalition activities aimed at undermining the party.
At the conclusion of the meeting, a detailed communiqué was released by Chief Sanya Atofarati, the PDP’s Southwest Zonal Publicity Secretary. The communiqué commended the leadership qualities of both Governor Makinde and Governor Adeleke for their steadfast commitment to preserving the party’s stability, unity, and growth across the region.
“The PDP in the Southwest remains firmly intact, focused, and prepared to face any upcoming challenges,” the communiqué read. It further encouraged all party organs and members to maintain unity and work diligently toward a successful national convention and future electoral victories.
While distancing itself from ongoing coalition discussions involving other political entities, the PDP emphasized its readiness to collaborate only with patriotic Nigerians who genuinely share its vision of rescuing and rebuilding the nation from what it described as the “misgovernance and hardship inflicted by the APC-led administration.”
“Our party remains open to working with all well-meaning, like-minded Nigerians who are determined to join forces in the collective mission to liberate the country from the grip of the All Progressives Congress (APC),” the statement stressed.
Looking ahead to future electoral contests in Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, and other Southwest states, the PDP projected confidence in its chances, expressing belief that it remains the most preferred and trusted choice for voters across the region and the entire country.
“We firmly believe that the PDP, as the preferred party in the Southwest and Nigeria at large, will secure sweeping victories in the forthcoming elections,” the communiqué confidently stated.
The party also expressed grave concerns about the worsening economic hardship, rampant insecurity, and other socio-economic challenges confronting Nigerians under the APC government.
In its concluding remarks, the PDP encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and steadfast, reiterating that together, with the support of the people, they can achieve meaningful change and national transformation.
“The 2027 general election will ultimately be a contest between the Nigerian people and the APC, and we are confident that Nigerians will emerge victorious through the platform of the PDP,” the party declared emphatically.