In a resounding call for party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State declared that the upcoming contest would be "APC versus Nigerians," urging members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to consolidate their efforts and present a formidable opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at the commissioning of the newly established South-West PDP Zonal Office in Ibadan on Saturday, Makinde emphasized the necessity of solidarity within the party amidst the ongoing economic struggles faced by Nigerians. He asserted that a cohesive PDP could significantly challenge the APC, highlighting recent electoral victories in Oyo and Osun States as clear indications of the electorate's sentiments against the ruling party.
“Let us all work together and unite our bases. The next general election will be an opportunity for Nigerians to express their discontent with the current government. Recent developments have shown that when we unite, the people’s voice will resonate,” Makinde stated.
The event was significant as it honored the late Hon. Olasoji Adagunodo-Oluwatukesi, a former PDP National Vice Chairman for the South-West, with Makinde personally funding the construction of the new secretariat. Alongside the office’s opening, he announced the appointment of Adagunodo's son, Soji Adagunodo (Jnr), as Special Adviser to the Governor on Regional Integration, signaling a commitment to ongoing regional leadership.
Makinde reassured attendees that he has not initiated any campaign efforts for the presidency, despite mounting calls for him to join the race. “If I decide to run for any position, I will make that announcement myself. No one, including external parties, can dictate my political journey,” he confirmed.
Encouraging a spirit of collaboration, Makinde expressed gratitude towards his Osun State counterpart, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for attending the event, noting their improved relationship despite previous disagreements over party leadership. “Today demonstrates that, regardless of our past differences, we can unite for the greater good of the PDP,” he remarked.
Echoing this sentiment, Governor Adeleke highlighted the importance of unity among party members, urging them to move beyond past divisions and work collectively to retain PDP-held states while aiming to expand their influence across Nigeria in future elections.
“A united PDP marks a significant step towards reclaiming our place in Nigerian politics. We must forget past conflicts and dedicate ourselves to strengthening our party,” Adeleke urged.
The occasion saw attendance from various PDP leaders, including the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagum, and former governors from multiple states, reinforcing a united front at both regional and national levels.
In his closing remarks, Makinde reiterated the importance of unity within the PDP, calling on all members to intensify their efforts as they prepare for the upcoming governorship elections in Ondo State on November 16, 2024, labeling it a precursor to the larger 2027 elections.
The event concluded on a hopeful note, with party leaders expressing a renewed commitment to collaboration, unity, and effective governance as they prepare for the electoral challenges that lie ahead.
