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Tag: Seyi Makinde

  • Makinde Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition as PDP, APM Seal Alliance in Ibadan

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially declared his intention to contest for the presidency in the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for what could become a major battle within the opposition ahead of the next political cycle.

    Makinde made the declaration on Thursday during a large political rally organised by the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement in Ibadan.

    PDP, APM Formalise Political Alliance

    The event also witnessed the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between both parties, further fueling talks about emerging political coalitions ahead of 2027.

    Makinde and APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, jointly witnessed the signing ceremony.

    Seyi Bamidele signed on behalf of the PDP, while Oladele Oyadeji represented the APM.

    The rally attracted party loyalists, stakeholders, and political figures from different parts of the South-West and beyond.

    Top Political Figures Attend Rally

    Among dignitaries present were Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; alongside Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Chief Saka Balogun, Open Salawu, and Abass Adigun.

    The gathering is already being viewed by political observers as an early show of strength ahead of consultations expected to intensify within opposition circles.

    ‘This Movement Goes Beyond Individuals’

    Speaking during the rally, former PDP National Vice Chairman, Eddy Olafeso, described the alliance as the beginning of a new political direction aimed at rebuilding public trust in governance.

    According to Olafeso, the coalition was not driven by personal ambition but by the need for a broader collaboration among political actors concerned about Nigeria’s future.

    “This movement goes beyond individuals. It is not about personal ambition or unhealthy political competition. It is about this generation, the next generation and generations yet unborn,” he said.

    He added that the current economic and political realities in the country had made opposition unity increasingly necessary.

    Pressure Builds Ahead of 2027

    Makinde’s declaration is expected to trigger fresh conversations within the PDP and allied political blocs as discussions around zoning, coalition-building, and party primaries begin to gather momentum.

    The Oyo governor now joins the growing list of political figures expected to shape early calculations for the 2027 presidential election.

  • Makinde Expected to Declare 2027 Presidential Ambition at Massive Ibadan Rally

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to formally declare his presidential ambition on Thursday, May 14, at a major political rally scheduled to hold at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan.

    The event, tagged “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026,” is expected to serve as the official platform for Makinde’s anticipated entry into the 2027 presidential race, alongside broader political alignments involving key stakeholders.

    Rally Set To Signal Political Realignment

    Sources familiar with preparations said the rally will also feature discussions around a growing alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), alongside other coalition-aligned political actors.

    According to reports, grassroots mobilisers, political associates and loyalists have intensified preparations as consultations continue over a possible national political structure being built around the governor.

    Behind-the-Scenes Consultations Intensify

    It was gathered that the move is part of a wider strategy aimed at strengthening grassroots networks across Oyo State and the South-West, while expanding Makinde’s influence within Nigeria’s national political space.

    Political sources also revealed that internal tensions within the PDP at the national level have pushed some stakeholders to explore alternative arrangements ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Strong Turnout Expected In Ibadan

    The May 14 rally is expected to attract political leaders, youth groups, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and supporters from different parts of the country.

    As of the time of filing this report, Makinde has not officially confirmed his presidential ambition, although pressure from supporters and political allies continues to grow.

  • Makinde Emerges PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman After Bala Mohammed’s Exit

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has been appointed chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), days after Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed exited the party.

    The development comes amid a shifting political landscape that has significantly reduced the PDP’s control at the state level.

    Leadership change follows defection

    Makinde’s emergence follows the defection of Bala Mohammed, who previously chaired the forum, to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

    The change leaves Makinde as the only governor currently elected on the platform of the PDP.

    PDP influence declines nationwide

    The party’s position has weakened sharply since the 2023 general elections, where it produced 12 governors.

    As of May 2026, the All Progressives Congress (APC) controls 31 of Nigeria’s 36 states, while the remaining five are shared among smaller parties including the PDP, Labour Party, APGA, Accord Party and APM.

    Forum hails Makinde’s emergence

    In a statement, the PDP Governors’ Forum described Makinde’s appointment as significant for both the party and Nigeria’s democratic system.

    The forum commended his role in sustaining multi-party democracy despite the current political climate.

    “Your resilience and steadfastness in sustaining multi-party democracy in Nigeria at a time when others have faltered is truly commendable,” the statement read.

    Calls for stronger opposition role

    The forum also framed Makinde’s leadership as a counterbalance to what it described as growing one-party dominance.

    It said his emergence offers renewed hope for democratic values, including accountability and good governance.

    Expectation of party revival

    Members expressed optimism that his tenure would strengthen the PDP’s internal structure and national relevance.

    They added that his leadership could help reposition the party ahead of future electoral contests.

  • Makinde Slams INEC Over ‘Hasty’ ADC Leadership Update Without Supreme Court CTC

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission for updating the African Democratic Congress leadership on its website without a Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment.

    He said the move raises concerns about due process and institutional credibility.

    Governor questions INEC’s action

    Speaking with journalists on Monday, Makinde said the commission acted prematurely by reflecting changes without sighting the official court document.

    “Nobody has seen the CTC… we were surprised that INEC went ahead to update the ADC leadership,” he said.

    He added that such a step by a national institution could undermine confidence in its operations.

    Warning over dangerous precedent

    Makinde cautioned that acting on unverified information could set a troubling standard.

    “What it means is somebody can whisper a court judgment and then they will go ahead and update that,” he said.

    He insisted that a professionally run organisation should rely strictly on verified documents before taking decisions.

    PDP defends interim committee

    The governor also addressed concerns surrounding the newly formed Interim National Management Committee within the Peoples Democratic Party.

    He maintained that the committee was properly constituted in line with the party’s constitution.

    “If you go to the constitution of the PDP… two-thirds of that membership came here. So it is legally constituted,” he stated.

    Party to engage INEC

    Makinde said the PDP would formally communicate its position to INEC and expects the commission to uphold democratic principles.

    “We will write to INEC… and allow the democratic space to accommodate opposition,” he said.

    He reaffirmed the party’s resolve to push for a stronger opposition, describing the situation as part of a broader struggle for democratic balance.

    “We will not give up… this is a battle for democracy,” he added.

    The remarks followed the PDP’s 103rd National Executive Committee meeting, where an interim committee was inaugurated to manage the party’s affairs amid ongoing leadership disputes.

  • PDP Crisis Deepens as Makinde Camp Moves to Name Turaki Caretaker Chair

    Fresh cracks have widened within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the faction backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde moves to unveil a 10-member caretaker committee, with Tanimu Turaki (SAN) tipped to lead the body.

    The committee is expected to be announced on Monday following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja.

    BoT backs Turaki amid leadership vacuum claims

    Sources said the Adolphus Wabara-led Board of Trustees (BoT) endorsed Turaki during a meeting held on Sunday, citing his acceptability across party ranks.

    Opening the session, Wabara insisted the party would not bow to what he described as “renegades and political brigands,” adding that the BoT had stepped in to stabilise the PDP.

    He argued that recent developments had created a leadership vacuum within the party.

    Supreme Court ruling fuels crisis

    The move follows the Supreme Court’s April 30 judgment, which invalidated the Makinde-backed PDP national convention held in Ibadan.

    In a split decision, the apex court ruled that the exercise violated subsisting court orders, intensifying the party’s internal crisis.

    Wabara said the BoT had secured the required backing to convene the NEC meeting and restore order.

    Mixed views over Turaki’s emergence

    A source at the meeting said most BoT members supported Turaki’s emergence as caretaker chairman, describing him as widely accepted.

    “Most members believe Turaki has boosted the party’s image and remains acceptable,” the source said.

    However, another insider noted that some members proposed alternative candidates, although indications suggest Turaki may eventually emerge.

    Makinde eyes 2027 presidential bid

    In a related development, sources revealed that Governor Makinde is expected to formally declare his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election within the week.

    He is said to be committed to remaining in the PDP despite the ongoing crisis.

    Wike faction rejects move

    Meanwhile, the faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismissed claims of a leadership vacuum.

    The group’s publicity secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, described the BoT meeting as inconsequential, insisting that the current leadership remains intact.

    “The meeting they held was just a gathering of people taking tea,” he said, adding that any outcome from it is a nullity.

    The PDP has remained divided for months, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s structure as political alignments intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

     

  • “PDP Is One” — Wike Reacts as Supreme Court Voids Ibadan Convention

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is united following the Supreme Court judgment that nullified its disputed national convention.

    Wike dismisses claims of division

    Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Wike said the ruling has resolved internal disagreements and put an end to factional claims within the party.

    “The PDP is one. The judgment has put to rest reactions of factions within the party,” he stated.

    Court nullified Ibadan convention

    The Supreme Court, in a split 3–2 decision, had earlier voided the PDP national convention held in Ibadan on November 15 and 16, 2025.

    The convention produced a leadership backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

    In its ruling, the court held that the exercise violated existing court orders and failed to meet required conditions before proceeding.

    ADC crisis still unresolved

    Wike also commented on the situation within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), noting that its leadership crisis remains unsettled.

    “The Supreme Court referred the ADC back to the Federal High Court. The ADC is still a problem,” he said.

    Strong remarks on political actors

    The FCT minister further drew a line between political parties and individuals, expressing criticism of certain figures.

    “Not that I don’t like the party, I hate the individuals involved. I don’t like them. They are part of the people who have plunged Nigeria into problems,” Wike added.

    The comments come as political realignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections, with recent court rulings shaping party structures and internal dynamics.

     

  • Makinde Breaks Silence on 2027 Succession Debate, Urges Caution Over Religion Talks

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has addressed the growing debate over who should succeed him in 2027, urging residents to prioritise unity and divine guidance rather than religious considerations. He spoke on Wednesday in Ibadan during a farewell event for intending Muslim pilgrims.

    His remarks come amid rising calls from some groups advocating for a Muslim governor to emerge next.

    Governor Responds to Rising Calls for Religious Balance

    In recent months, stakeholders including market leaders, transport unions, and traditional figures such as Mogajis and Baales have pushed for a Muslim successor. They argue that such a move would sustain religious balance in the state’s leadership.

    The conversation has gained momentum as early political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

    Makinde Urges Focus on Leadership, Not Religion

    Speaking in Yoruba, the governor cautioned against narrowing the debate to religious identity. He said leadership decisions should be guided by what benefits the state rather than political calculations.

    “I have heard that the next governor should be a Muslim. I want to beg you to pray that God should choose for us,” he said, adding that the priority should be someone who can build on existing progress.

    Governor Highlights Representation Pattern in Senate

    Makinde also referenced what he described as a consistent pattern in Oyo State’s representation at the National Assembly. He noted that recent Senate delegations from the state have been dominated by Muslim lawmakers.

    According to him, all three senators in the current and previous assemblies are Muslims, raising questions about the basis for calls centred solely on religious identity.

    Call for Unity as Political Tensions Build

    The governor stressed the need for unity among residents, questioning whether electoral outcomes should be reduced to religious affiliations. He urged citizens to focus on collective progress rather than divisive narratives.

    “Is it only Muslims who voted that got them elected?” he asked.

    2027 Race Begins to Take Shape

    Makinde’s comments come as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the next election cycle, with discussions around zoning, religion, and representation gaining traction. His intervention signals an attempt to steer the conversation toward inclusivity and governance.

  • Obi Meets Makinde in Ibadan, Pushes United Nigeria Agenda as 2027 Consultations Intensify

    Peter Obi has met with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan, saying their discussions focused on building a more united, secure and productive Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections. The meeting is part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures as political alignments begin to take shape.

    Obi spoke to journalists after a closed-door meeting that lasted nearly two hours at the Oyo State Secretariat.

    Obi Describes Meeting as Part of Wider Consultations

    According to Obi, the engagement is one of several ongoing discussions about Nigeria’s future. He said both leaders share a common goal of building a country that works for all citizens.

    “We have come to consult and to continue discussions… on issues that concern the future of our country,” he said. He added that the talks are focused on national development rather than narrow political interests.

    Focus on Unity, Security and Inclusive System

    Obi said the conversation also touched on unity, security and governance. He stressed the need for a system where opportunities are based on merit rather than personal connections.

    He noted that rebuilding trust and ensuring fairness are key to achieving long-term national stability.

    Economic Shift and Job Creation Highlighted

    The former presidential candidate called for a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one focused on production. He said this is necessary to create jobs and drive sustainable growth.

    According to him, economic policies must directly improve livelihoods and reduce dependence on imports.

    Meeting Follows Recent Opposition Engagements

    The meeting comes days after a high-level opposition gathering in Ibadan. It also follows Obi’s recent engagement with former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    These moves point to growing coordination among political actors ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Early Signals as 2027 Political Activity Builds

    With consultations intensifying, attention is now shifting to how these discussions will shape alliances in the coming months. Political activity is expected to increase as parties prepare for the next election cycle.

  • APC Slams Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Remark at Opposition Summit

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over comments made at an opposition summit, describing them as inciting and dangerous.

    Makinde had referenced the “Operation Wetie” violence of the 1960s while warning against the emergence of a one-party state in Nigeria.

    Controversial Historical Reference

    Speaking at the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders, Makinde said, “They should remember that ‘Operation Wetie’ started from here. This is the same Wild Wild West.”

    The phrase “Operation Wetie,” derived from a Yoruba expression meaning “soak him,” refers to a violent political era marked by arson and attacks following the disputed 1965 Western Region elections.

    APC Raises Alarm Over ‘Incitement’

    In a statement issued on Sunday, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka described the comment as troubling.

    “It is deeply concerning that a sitting governor would invoke such a violent historical reference,” the party said, warning it could trigger “anarchy, murderous rage and widespread lawlessness.”

    The APC added that Makinde’s remarks cast doubt on his suitability as a state’s chief security officer.

    Calls for Security Action

    The ruling party urged security and intelligence agencies to take note of the statement, stressing that public office holders must be held accountable.

    “Constitutional immunity from prosecution is not immunity from accountability for threats or acts against national security,” the statement added.

    Opposition Blamed for Internal Crisis

    The APC also dismissed concerns about a one-party state, attributing challenges within opposition ranks to internal divisions.

    It criticised figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, accusing them of weakening their parties rather than building viable alternatives.

    2027 Political Tensions Build

    Reaffirming confidence ahead of the 2027 elections, the APC said Nigeria’s democratic space remains open.

    The party pledged continued mobilisation in support of President Bola Tinubu’s agenda as political alignments intensify.

     

  • Kwankwaso Arrives Ibadan for Opposition Leaders’ Summit Hosted by Makinde

    Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has arrived in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders.

    The former presidential candidate disclosed this in a post on his X account on Saturday, expressing readiness for high-level engagements.

    Summit brings opposition figures together

    The summit is being hosted by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with several political figures expected to participate.

    Kwankwaso described the meeting as an opportunity for meaningful discussions among national leaders.

    “Excited to arrive in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders, hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde,” he wrote.

    “Ready for meaningful engagements with fellow national leaders.”

    Focus on political consultations

    Although details of the agenda were not disclosed, the gathering is seen as part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures ahead of future political alignments.

    The meeting comes amid increasing talks around coalition-building and strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.