Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed the vitality of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing notions that the party is defunct. Makinde made this declaration at the Southwest PDP Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where leaders and office holders from six states converged. The meeting drew prominent figures, including the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, and former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
The gathering also witnessed the defection of members from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the PDP. Makinde cited the significant turnout and the influx of new members as evidence of the party’s strength, stating, “I can assure you that the PDP is well and alive. Whoever thinks otherwise will be surprised beyond their imagination.”
Makinde emphasized the importance of unity and commitment among party members, particularly at the grassroots level. He urged leaders to strengthen the party’s structures within communities, wards, and local governments, saying, “Please hold your communities, hold your wards, hold your local governments, and it will be well with us.” The governor expressed optimism about the PDP’s future, encouraging members to remain faithful and loyal.
Ladi Adebutu, a former Ogun State governorship candidate, welcomed Makinde and other party leaders, noting that the PDP has proven its detractors wrong by demonstrating unity. Adebutu stated, “Let’s remain firm in the PDP. We now have structures from the ward to the national level. So, we have nothing to fear.” The meeting underscores the PDP’s efforts to revitalize its presence ahead of the 2027 general elections, with a focus on building a strong foundation and expanding its membership base. As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, the PDP’s resurgence is likely to have significant implications for the country’s political landscape.
