Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain steadfast and united despite the wave of defections currently unsettling the party.
Speaking on Monday in Abuja during the inauguration of the PDP National Convention Transportation Subcommittee, which he chairs, Makinde assured party faithful that the ongoing turbulence is only temporary and will ultimately make the PDP stronger.
“Although this period may seem tough, it’s a phase that will pass. When something lasting is being built, it often gets worse before it gets better. So, let us remain committed and united,” the governor said.
Makinde reaffirmed that the PDP remains a truly national party with a presence in every ward across Nigeria. He urged supporters to “hold their corner” and not be discouraged by the recent defections of key figures.
In recent months, several high-profile members, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu, have reportedly aligned with the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Additionally, some PDP governors — such as Akwa Ibom’s Umo Eno, Delta’s Sheriff Oborevwori, and the party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa — are said to have joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Reports also suggest that Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri may soon follow suit ahead of the PDP National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Addressing these developments, Makinde maintained that the defections do not signal the end for the PDP but rather present an opportunity to rebuild with renewed purpose.
“This is the time when genuine heroes will emerge, not just for the PDP but for Nigeria as a whole. It’s not the time for despair or self-doubt; it’s the time to stand up and be counted,” he said.
Makinde expressed confidence that the upcoming convention will produce capable and visionary leaders who can restore Nigerians’ faith in the PDP and the nation.
“I’m holding my corner, trusting the leadership we will enthrone. No matter how small your assignment, do it diligently—it will all add up to our collective success,” he added.
Reflecting on his previous service as Secretary of the PDP National Convention Organising Committee in 2021, the governor said his acceptance of the role as Chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee demonstrates his continued commitment to the party.
He emphasized that the subcommittee’s work is critical to ensuring smooth logistics for delegates and supporters traveling to Ibadan for the convention.
“Our work begins before they even leave home. The success of the convention will depend on the efficiency and dedication we put into our task,” Makinde noted.
He concluded by urging PDP members to see their roles as acts of sacrifice toward restoring the party’s original ideals and putting Nigeria back on the path of progress.
Comments