Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring that he will remain with the party regardless of any political coalitions formed to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Makinde made this declaration during the Southwest PDP caucus meeting held Friday at the party’s Olusoji Adagunodo Southwest Zonal Secretariat in Ibadan. The meeting addressed key issues affecting the party in the region, with a major focus on the federal government’s continued withholding of local government allocations meant for Osun State.
Stressing unity and resilience, Makinde said, “We reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to the PDP and our commitment to the unity, stability, progress, and success of the party at all levels in the zone and across the country.”
He condemned the withholding of Osun’s local government funds, describing it as unconstitutional and harmful to the well-being of the people.
In response to coalition talks, Makinde downplayed their significance, questioning the credibility of those involved: “The PDP in the Southwest is united. Coalition is not a threat. Who are these people forming coalitions? Many have moved between PDP and APC before—what new ideas are they offering?”
Using a metaphor to emphasize party loyalty, he added, “This building is the PDP’s Southwest Secretariat. If the roof leaks, we won’t abandon it—we’ll fix it, because responsible leaders don’t run from challenges.”
Also speaking at the meeting, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke—represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi—reiterated his full allegiance to the PDP, dismissing any rumors of his involvement in coalition efforts ahead of 2027.
In a communique read by Southwest PDP Zonal Publicity Secretary, Chief Sanya Atofarati, the party praised the efforts of Makinde and Adeleke in stabilizing and strengthening the PDP in the region.
“We commend Governors Makinde and Adeleke for their tireless contributions to ensuring the growth and stability of the PDP as the leading political force in the Southwest,” the communique stated.
The party also clarified its position on recent coalition reports, affirming, “We are not part of any reported coalition and call on all members to remain united.”
However, the PDP expressed openness to collaborating with like-minded Nigerians in the effort to unseat the APC, stating, “We are ready to work with well-meaning citizens committed to rescuing the nation from the APC’s misrule.”
Looking ahead, the party vowed to intensify preparations for upcoming bye-elections in Oyo and Ogun States, as well as local government elections in Lagos.
“The PDP remains the party of choice in the Southwest and Nigeria. We are confident of sweeping victories in forthcoming elections,” the party declared.
The communique also raised concerns about worsening insecurity and economic hardship under the APC-led administration, aligning with Makinde’s view that the 2027 election will be a direct contest between the Nigerian people and the APC—with the PDP poised to lead a change.
“We urge Nigerians to stay hopeful and resolute. The PDP remains committed to leading the charge to rescue our country,” the statement concluded.
