Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has warned that the continued crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could endanger Nigeria’s democracy and open the door to a one-party state.
Makinde accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of working to weaken the PDP in favour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. He said any attempt to destroy the main opposition party would ultimately undermine democratic pluralism in the country.
The governor made the remarks during a media interaction from Ibadan, aired on major television stations, where he spoke extensively on the PDP crisis, his fallout with Wike, his relationship with President Tinubu, and his political future.
“I Regret Supporting Tinubu”
Makinde, a key figure in the PDP and a former member of the G-5 governors, admitted that he regretted supporting President Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election.
He said his decision at the time was driven by the belief that Tinubu would act in the national interest and reset the country.
“I supported the current president because I thought he would do what was right for Nigeria. Unfortunately, that is not what we are seeing. I regret that action,” Makinde said.
He also ruled out supporting Tinubu for a second term, stressing that democracy can only survive if opposition parties like the PDP remain strong.
Alleged Plot to “Hold Down” PDP
Makinde alleged that Wike had promised President Tinubu to “hold down” the PDP ahead of the 2027 elections without the consent of other party leaders.
He said he openly challenged Wike over the claim during a meeting involving the president.
“Wike said to the president that he would hold PDP for him against 2027. I asked him immediately if that was what we agreed to,” Makinde stated.
While acknowledging Wike’s right to support Tinubu, Makinde insisted that other PDP members also have the right—and duty—to protect the party and resist any attempt to weaken democratic competition.
Why I Refused to Organise APC in Oyo
Makinde disclosed that President Tinubu had asked him to help reorganise the All Progressives Congress (APC) structure in Oyo State, a request he firmly rejected.
According to him, the discussion initially arose during talks about cabinet appointments and the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport to international status.
He revealed that although he was asked to recommend a qualified professional for a ministerial position from Oyo State, the eventual appointment did not align with what was discussed.
The governor said the conversation later shifted to party politics, with the president directly asking him to help strengthen the APC in Oyo.
“I told him clearly: I cannot help you. I am of the PDP,” Makinde said.
Rift With Wike
Makinde explained that his political alliance with Wike collapsed after the FCT minister aligned with President Tinubu to weaken the PDP.
He also took a swipe at Wike’s background, stating that he had built a successful international business career long before entering politics.
“At 29, I was already earning millions of dollars in multinational oil companies. Politics was not what defined me,” he said.
2027 Presidency: “I Am Qualified”
Makinde said he is fully qualified to contest the presidency in 2027 if the opportunity arises, pointing to his two-term governorship and professional background outside politics.
“I am qualified, even overqualified, to serve this country at the highest level,” he said, noting that historical precedent shows that experience as a state governor often prepares leaders for the presidency.
Legacy, Infrastructure and Governance
The governor said his administration is focused on building strong institutions rather than pursuing projects for political credit.
He defended the Ibadan Circular Road project, dismissing allegations of land grabbing and explaining that the 500-metre corridor was gazetted before he assumed office.
Makinde said the 110-kilometre road is designed to decongest Ibadan, boost commerce, and transition Oyo State from a consumptive to a productive economy.
On compensation, he said the government is adopting a humane approach by compensating even residents without formal land titles, provided they can prove residency.
“Destroying PDP Is Dangerous”
Makinde concluded by warning that any deliberate attempt to destroy the PDP would weaken democracy and harm Nigeria’s political future.
He urged democrats across party lines to resist moves that could impose a one-party system on the country, insisting that a vibrant opposition remains essential to good governance and accountability.
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