Oyo State Governor’s Strong Message on PDP National Convention
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has issued a strong warning to those attempting to disrupt the preparations for the upcoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention, scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State. He described such actions as an attempt to stop a moving train, which he likened to political suicide. This statement came during an interview with journalists following the inauguration of the PDP National Convention Transportation Subcommittee in Abuja.
Makinde emphasized that Oyo State is committed to ensuring that this convention will be the best in the party’s history. The event comes at a time when the PDP is navigating internal challenges, with several prominent figures aligning with other political groups ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Defections and Political Shifts
Several high-profile politicians have joined the African Democratic Congress-led opposition coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-presidential aspirant Dele Momodu. Meanwhile, some PDP leaders have shifted their allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa.
There are also indications that Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri may join the APC before the convention. These defections highlight the ongoing turbulence within the PDP and raise concerns about the party’s future direction.
Internal Conflicts and Legal Challenges
Allies of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee. They raised grievances regarding the South-South zonal structure, party leadership in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau States, as well as the convention’s micro-zoning arrangement. The group warned that the convention may not proceed unless the party revisits its decisions. They have reportedly sought legal intervention to halt the event.
Despite these challenges, the Federal High Court in Abuja recently declined to grant an interim order restraining the PDP from holding its national convention. Justice James Omotosho dismissed an ex parte application filed by Wike’s associates seeking to stop both the Independent National Electoral Commission and the PDP from proceeding with the scheduled leadership meetings and convention.
A Resilient Party
In response to these attempts, Makinde, who serves as Chairman of the National Convention Transportation Subcommittee, affirmed that the event would proceed as planned. He stated, “This meeting is just a demonstration of the fact that the National Convention of our great party—the train—has moved, and whoever is trying to stop a moving train is probably also trying to commit suicide.”
Makinde emphasized that the party remains unbothered by the defections, highlighting that the final decision rests with the Nigerian people. He noted that the PDP has endured through various challenges since democracy was restored in Nigeria in 1999. “Challenges will come and go, but for us as leaders, no matter the situation we find ourselves in, organising the party is not an end in itself. The end is for Nigerians to have democracy and a party they can relate with.”
Focus on the Future
When questioned about his reported 2027 presidential ambitions, Makinde stressed that his priority is ensuring a smooth National Convention. He said, “I have said several times that I am old enough to set an agenda for myself. For us, we must have a party before anyone can have an ambition.”
Makinde urged party members not to lose hope over recent defections, assuring them that the party’s current challenges are temporary. He noted that the experience would eventually fortify the PDP and position it for future electoral victories. “We are from every corner of this country — from the North-West, North-Central, North-East, South-West, South-South, and South-East. That is the PDP,” he said.
Commitment to the Party
Makinde also expressed confidence that the forthcoming National Convention would produce capable leaders committed to repositioning the PDP and rebuilding Nigeria. He recalled serving as Secretary of the PDP National Convention Organising Committee in 2021 and now chairs the Transportation Subcommittee. “No assignment is too big or too small to move our party forward,” he said.
The Co-Chairman of the PDP National Convention, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), stated that the party is firmly on track to regain the Presidency. He added, “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, from the turnout of members of this committee, Nigerians will now know that the PDP is on course, that the journey to reclaim Aso Rock has started.”
PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, also expressed confidence that the party will reclaim power in 2027 following its successful convention in Ibadan. He emphasized that the party belongs to the people and enjoys their support. “With the support of the people, we will defeat the failed All Progressives Congress government come 2027.”
Conclusion
As the PDP prepares for its National Convention, the party faces significant challenges, but its leaders remain determined to move forward. With a focus on unity, resilience, and the will of the Nigerian people, the PDP aims to emerge stronger and ready to reclaim power in 2027.
