Oyo Chief Whip Gbenga Oyekola Expresses Confidence in Governor Makinde’s Ability to Resolve PDP Internal Crisis; Warns Against One-Party Trend

Oyo Chief Whip Gbenga Oyekola backs Gov. Seyi Makinde to settle the PDP internal crisis. Learn why he calls the dispute a "storm in a teacup" and warns of a one-party state.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 21, 2026, 12:19 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Nation

A "Storm in a Teacup"

The internal crisis currently facing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a temporary setback that will soon reach an amicable resolution, according to Hon. Gbenga Oyekola. Speaking on the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) guest forum, Gbagede Oselu, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the Atiba State Constituency representative downplayed the severity of the party's divisions. Oyekola characterized the ongoing disputes as a "storm in a teacup," expressing total confidence that the party's primary stakeholders are moving toward a settlement that will restore unity and stability.

Total Confidence in Governor Makinde

Oyekola’s optimism is rooted in his unwavering trust in the leadership of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. Describing Makinde as a leader he would "follow to war with eyes closed," the lawmaker highlighted the Governor’s reputation for fulfilling promises and executing decisive strategies. Oyekola noted that even if the crisis persists through the next election season, he believes the Governor possesses the strategic foresight to safeguard the interests of both the party and its loyal members, ensuring the PDP remains a formidable force.

Leadership and the Fear of God

Beyond partisan politics, the Chief Whip addressed the broader systemic challenges facing Nigeria. He argued that the fundamental cause of the country's socio-political issues is a lack of accountability and the "fear of God" among those in positions of authority. Oyekola cautioned that mere administrative or constitutional reforms would be insufficient if leaders did not recognize their ultimate responsibility to a higher power. He urged officials to govern effectively and transparently, noting that a leader who plays their role with integrity has no need to seek "safety or cover" from public scrutiny.