Gov Makinde refutes defection rumours, affirms loyalty to PDP

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has put to rest rumours suggesting he might leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that he remains fully committed to the party.

Makinde made this clear while speaking to PDP stakeholders from all 33 Local Government Areas at the Local Government House Secretariat in Ibadan on Monday.

His statement follows reports that he, along with former Anambra State governor Peter Obi and former Bayelsa State governor Senator Seriake Dickson, were recently 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.

Meanwhile, the governor reaffirmed his commitment and that of his political structure to the PDP, declaring that the party remains the platform for all electoral contests ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He made this known during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the State Secretariat on Monday, where party leaders, elected officials, and key stakeholders gathered to deliberate on the political roadmap for the coming election cycle.

Makinde assured party faithful that all aspirants seeking elective positions in 2027 would contest under the PDP, putting to rest speculations about possible defections or alternative platforms.

He further revealed that the party would adopt a consensus-based approach in the selection of candidates, emphasising unity and internal cohesion as critical to sustaining the PDP’s dominance in the state.

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