Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dispelled rumors of his potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Makinde made this statement during the public presentation of a book titled “Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments that Defined an Administration” by former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in Abuja.
The governor emphasized that he remains a member of the PDP and has no intention of joining the APC, despite the ongoing leadership challenges within his party. Makinde stressed the importance of collaboration among leaders across party lines, stating that Nigeria’s development can only be achieved through sincere cooperation. He attributed the country’s growing divisions to the ambitions of political elites, which often exploit religious, ethnic, and regional differences for personal gain.
Makinde’s comments come amid internal disagreements and leadership disputes within the PDP, which have fueled speculation about possible defections by prominent party members. The APC has recently benefited from high-profile defections from opposition parties, strengthening its dominance at the national level.
The book launch, which coincided with the posthumous birthday of former President Muhammadu Buhari, saw notable figures in attendance, including representatives of the late president’s family and former government officials. Mohammed dedicated the first chapter of the book to Buhari, who had written the foreword to his first book, “Witness to History,” 13 years ago.
The book documents Mohammed’s work as Nigeria’s longest-serving Minister of Information and Culture, covering areas such as information management, national orientation, culture, and tourism. Mohammed emphasized that the book aims to correct misconceptions, provide context, and share firsthand accounts of his time in office. He highlighted key topics covered in the book, including government communications during elections, the restoration of the National Theatre, and efforts to counter misinformation on Boko Haram and the Bring Back Our Girls movement.
The launch was attended by dignitaries, including the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Marwa, and former Governor of Osun State, Adebisi Akande. The event served as an opportunity for leaders to reflect on the importance of documenting their perspectives and experiences, with Makinde urging leaders to “enrich our history by documenting our perspectives.”