PDP South-West Chair Expresses Optimism for 2027 Despite Deepening Leadership Factionalism

Despite internal factions and parallel committees, PDP South-West chair Kamorudeen Ajisafe claims the party will shock critics in 2027.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 8:47 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Punch

Optimism Amidst Regional and National Factionalism

The South-West Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Kamorudeen Ajisafe, issued a defiant statement on Tuesday, predicting a significant electoral comeback for the party in the 2027 general elections. Addressing the ongoing leadership rifts that have split the party into competing factions, Ajisafe argued that the PDP is currently in a state of consolidation rather than collapse. He emphasized that the party intends to reclaim its status as the dominant political force in the South-West and nationwide, despite the current public perception of a weakened opposition.

The Dual Leadership Crisis and Parallel Committees

The PDP is currently navigating one of the most volatile periods in its history, characterized by a split between two primary camps. One faction is led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, while the other is aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. This divide has resulted in the unprecedented situation of parallel conventions and the production of two separate National Working Committees (NWC). While these internal rifts have led to recent legislative losses—including the defection of five Representatives—Ajisafe insists that stakeholders are working behind the scenes to ensure aspirants are not left stranded by the lack of a singular party structure.

Governor Makinde’s Record as a Regional Blueprint

Central to Ajisafe’s argument for a PDP resurgence is the performance of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. He cited high-profile projects, such as the Ibadan circular road, and the governor's popularity with traditional rulers as evidence of "monumental governance" that other parties cannot easily defeat. Ajisafe cautioned against any attempts by rival groups to incite traditional institutions against the governor, stating that the bar of governance in Oyo has been raised to a level that secures the party’s future in the state. He suggested that this localized success would serve as a template for other South-West states, including Ekiti, where he claims the party has a "credible and popular" candidate ready for 2027.