Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has sent a powerful message to the political class and the Nigerian public, declaring that the 2027 general elections will not merely be a contest between political parties, but a confrontation between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and millions of hungry Nigerians who have suffered from the economic downturn.
Speaking on Wednesday during the official inauguration of the newly elected Southwest Zonal executive members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), held at the Soji Adagunodo House in Ibadan, Governor Makinde addressed rising concerns over waves of political defections, particularly those involving high-profile individuals and governors crossing over to the APC.
Makinde dismissed the defections as irrelevant to the true political sentiment in the country, emphasizing that the critical issue for 2027 will not be about political realignments but about the hunger and hardship being endured by ordinary Nigerians under the APC-led federal administration.
“People have been asking us as leaders of this party about the wave of defections—governors are decamping, some key individuals are threatening to decamp, and so on. They ask, ‘What’s the fate of the PDP?’” Makinde said. “But I tell them this: we will not be concerned until hunger itself has decamped to the ruling party.”
He continued, “The day hunger crosses over to the APC, then we can start asking questions. But as long as hunger remains with the people—our people—then the 2027 elections will not be about who joined which party. It will be about survival. It will be about change. It will be about the suffering masses voting with their stomachs and their hearts.”
Makinde stressed that the PDP’s strength lies not in political opportunism but in its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. He emphasized that the party is focused on long-term institutional building and people-driven governance, not just short-term political wins.
“Let them decamp,” Makinde added, “Governors, senators, whoever—they can join the APC if they like. We will stay with the people. That’s where true strength lies. We will not be shaken.”
He also addressed criticism that the PDP focuses on empowering individuals instead of building strong institutions. Makinde argued that the resilience of the PDP, especially after losing federal power in 2015, proves its commitment to institutional integrity and democratic processes.
“Unlike the APC that has only held one National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting under the current administration, the PDP is preparing for its 300th NEC meeting,” he stated, pointing out that even in opposition, the PDP has maintained structural consistency, internal democracy, and a clear policy direction.
Governor Makinde used the occasion to rally PDP members, urging them to remain united and steadfast. He reassured them that loyalty to the party would be recognized, and future leadership roles would reflect the dedication of its members.
He concluded with a passionate call to action: “Make no mistake about it—2027 will not be APC versus PDP. It will be APC versus the hungry people of Nigeria. And when the people rise, no amount of political maneuvering will stop
them.”