Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) elective congress held in Oyo State in November last year remains valid “no matter what,” amid ongoing internal disputes within the party.
Makinde made the assertion on Monday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission in Ibadan, where party leaders and loyalists gathered to chart a path forward ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor’s remarks come against the backdrop of a lingering crisis within the PDP, triggered by controversies surrounding its 2025 national convention in Ibadan. The dispute, which involved legal battles and factional disagreements, has seen divisions among party stakeholders, including loyalists of Nyesom Wike.
Despite the turbulence at the national level, Makinde maintained that the party in Oyo State remains focused and determined, stressing that securing the PDP’s place on the ballot in 2027 is “sacrosanct.”
He described the party’s current situation as involving “two extremes”—a “war” among aspirants vying for elective positions and a “battle” to ensure the party’s eligibility to participate in the elections.
Addressing speculation about a possible defection, the governor dismissed such claims, reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP.
“We’re comfortable in our PDP,” he said, assuring supporters that he and his political camp would contest the next elections under the party’s platform.
Makinde also revealed plans to adopt a consensus approach in selecting candidates, noting that the strategy would help preserve unity and minimise internal conflict.
In a move seen as rewarding loyalty, he disclosed that all first-term lawmakers at both the National Assembly and State Assembly levels would be returned unopposed.
The meeting, which lasted nearly two hours behind closed doors, focused on assessing both national political developments and the PDP’s internal challenges, as well as strategies for strengthening the party’s structure in Oyo State.
Makinde urged stakeholders to prioritise unity and engage widely with constituents across local governments and senatorial districts to build consensus ahead of the elections.
Acknowledging the party’s internal crises, including court cases and leadership disputes, the governor expressed confidence that the PDP would overcome its challenges through dialogue and cooperation.
He emphasised that unity and strategic coordination remain critical for the party’s success as it prepares for the 2027 electoral contest.
