, asserting that he has no intention of leaving the party despite recent defections by some high-profile members.){kind=link}
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has dismissed speculation surrounding his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting that he has no intention of leaving the party despite recent defections by some high-profile members.
The governor made this known during the official swearing-in of the newly elected PDP South-West zonal executives, held at the party’s zonal secretariat, Soji Adagunodo House, along Old Ife Road in Ibadan.
Makinde acknowledged that some Nigerians are concerned about the future of the PDP in light of recent political realignments, but insisted that the party still connects with the masses.
“People have been asking questions—governors are leaving, others are threatening to leave. But I told them: let us not be troubled until we hear that hunger has moved to the APC,” he said.
He emphasized that the hardship faced by Nigerians will be a decisive factor in the 2027 general elections, adding, “The day hunger crosses over to the ruling party, then we’ll know it’s time to worry. For now, the suffering masses will shape the next political outcome.”
Makinde also praised the PDP’s resilience and institutional strength, contrasting it with what he called the lack of structure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He cited PDP’s survival since losing federal power in 2015 and the party’s continued electoral relevance in states like Oyo.
“There’s this narrative that PDP builds strong individuals but lacks strong institutions. I disagree. Even after losing national power, PDP endured. In 2017, they said our party was falling apart in Oyo, yet we won the next election,” he stated.
He challenged the APC to match PDP’s consistency in party governance, pointing out that the PDP holds regular congresses and NEC meetings, while the APC has struggled to maintain internal coordination.
Makinde assured the new zonal executive members of his full support, reaffirming a joint commitment with Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to back the South-West leadership of the party.
“This executive will get the support it needs to succeed. My brother from Osun has said it, and I’m here to reaffirm it,” he said.
He also acknowledged the dedication of PDP supporters, assuring them that more opportunities would come as the party prepares for its national convention.
On his part, Governor Adeleke hailed the new zonal leadership as a sign of progress and urged them to prioritize reconciliation and inclusion in their leadership approach.
In his inaugural remarks, the PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Engr. Kamorudeen Ajisafe, expressed appreciation for the peaceful conduct of the zonal election and pledged to work with state chairpersons to strengthen the party and boost its electoral chances.