By Abiola Olawale
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially put to rest swirling speculations regarding a potential move to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a high-level party stakeholder meeting in Ibadan, the Governor dismissed the rumours as “political noise,” asserting his unwavering commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He made this known while addressing PDP stakeholders drawn from all 33 Local Government Areas of the state at the Local Government House Secretariat in Ibadan, the state capital.
The rebuttal comes days after Makinde, alongside former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, and former Bayelsa State governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, were hosted by the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in Kano State.
The governor reassured party members of the PDP’s continued relevance, insisting that despite current challenges, the party will not collapse and will actively participate in the 2027 general elections.
“Those saying PDP will die are mistaken. What is certain is that PDP will be on the ballot in 2027, and we will produce candidates for all elective positions from the state to the national level. We will remain in PDP and win,” he said.
Makinde, who emphasised the need for unity within the party, urged stakeholders to close ranks and adopt consensus-building strategies ahead of the elections.
He directed party leaders across zones to convene meetings aimed at resolving differences and agreeing on acceptable arrangements.
“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,” he said.
The governor also announced automatic tickets for National Assembly members and first-term members of the state House of Assembly.
He clarified that first-term lawmakers in the state Assembly would be granted automatic tickets, while considerations would also be made for returning members based on existing agreements, including rotational arrangements.
“There are places where individuals have chosen not to return, and in some cases, second-term lawmakers may seek a third term. We are preparing for a tough electoral contest, but we are confident of victory.
“This battle is not just about 2027; it is about the future of democracy and future generations. Nothing good comes easy. Success is achieved through struggle. Can we fight through this? Yes. Can we win? Absolutely,” he said.
