Governor Seyi Makinde Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP Following High-Profile Strategic Meetings with Opposition Leaders

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde confirms his loyalty to the PDP, dismissing rumors of a switch to the NNPP after high-profile meetings with opposition leaders.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 24, 2026, 4:45 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Naija News

Governor Makinde Addresses Speculation Over Political Allegiance

The political landscape in Oyo State saw a definitive clarification on Monday as Governor Seyi Makinde addressed widespread rumors regarding his potential departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking to stakeholders from all 33 Local Government Areas at the State Secretariat in Ibadan, Makinde categorically denied plans to defect to a rival platform. This public declaration follows intense media speculation triggered by his recent attendance at a strategic gathering in Kano, which featured prominent opposition figures including Rabiu Kwankwaso and Peter Obi. By reaffirming his loyalty, the governor aims to stabilize his base and silence critics who suggested the PDP’s influence was waning in the region.

Strategic Consultations and the Future of the Opposition

While the governor acknowledged his recent interactions with leaders from the New Nigeria Peoples Party and the Labour Party, he framed these engagements as part of a broader dialogue on the future of Nigerian democracy rather than a precursor to a party switch. Makinde asserted that the PDP remains a formidable force capable of challenging the status quo in the 2027 electoral cycle. According to the governor, those predicting the demise of the party are mistaken, as the PDP intends to be present on every ballot from the state level to the presidency. He emphasized that the party’s survival depends on its ability to remain a viable, independent alternative during a period of shifting political alliances.

Internal Harmonization and Automatic Tickets for Lawmakers

In a move designed to secure internal stability, Governor Makinde announced a policy of automatic tickets for certain categories of sitting legislators. He confirmed that first-term members of the Oyo State House of Assembly and members of the National Assembly would receive the party’s endorsement to seek re-election without internal primary contests. This directive is intended to reward loyalty and maintain a seasoned legislative front as the party prepares for what Makinde described as a "tough electoral contest." The governor noted that while some rotational agreements must be respected, the priority is to field candidates with proven track records of service and electoral viability.