Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) not to be discouraged by the wave of defections hitting the party, stating that the 2027 general elections will be determined by the will of the people—especially those suffering from hunger—not by political maneuvering.
Makinde made this statement on Wednesday during the inauguration of the newly elected South West zonal executive of the PDP at the party’s zonal secretariat, Soji Adagunodo House, Old Ife Road, Ibadan.
He emphasized that despite the defections, PDP remains the only political party in Nigeria with strong institutions, adding that the party would continue to align with the masses and their aspirations.
“We won’t be bothered about defections until hunger decamps to the ruling APC,” Makinde said. “There is hunger in the land, and it is the hungry Nigerians who will determine what happens in 2027. So, let any governor who wants to decamp do so. We will remain with the people.”
The governor called on party members to remain steadfast, assuring them of future opportunities within the party. “This is a demonstration of your commitment. It’s not just about positions. More opportunities will come, especially with the upcoming national convention,” he added.
Addressing the issue of institutional strength within the PDP, Makinde dismissed the notion that the party only builds strong individuals and not institutions.
“I read an analysis claiming PDP builds strong men, not institutions. I disagree. We lost power in 2015 but did not collapse. Despite our internal crises, we still won in Oyo in 2019. We are inaugurating a zonal executive today—how much more institutional can it get?” he said.
He also took a swipe at the APC, stating that the party has only held a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting once under the current administration, unlike the PDP, which is preparing for its 300th NEC meeting.
Also speaking at the event, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State described the emergence of the new zonal leadership as a positive sign for the PDP in the South West. He urged the new executives to build inclusive party structures at all levels and embark on reconciliation efforts across the region.
In his inaugural speech, the PDP National Vice Chairman (South West), Kamorudeen Ajisafe, lauded the peaceful conduct of the zonal election and pledged to work with state party chairmen to unite and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ajisafe said the South West would play a key role in PDP’s quest to reclaim the presidency in 2027, stressing the need for collective resolve and unity among party members.
Also present at the event was Chief Ladi Adebutu, the PDP’s Ogun State gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections. He commended Governors Makinde and Adeleke for providing the leadership that ensured a smooth and rancour-free zonal election.
He urged all party stakeholders to close ranks and ensure the PDP provides strong leadership in the South West.
The event drew PDP leaders and stakeholders from across the six South West states.
