Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State, stated on Sunday that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the judiciary, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are supporting the faction led by Nyesom Wike. However, he maintained that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) retains the support of the Nigerian masses.
The Oyo State governor made these remarks during a Sallah homage to Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum. The meeting took place at the Ramat Presidential Villa within the Bauchi State Government House.
Allegations of political realignment for 2027
Makinde claimed to have attended a meeting with President Bola Tinubu and Nyesom Wike, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He alleged that during this meeting, Wike promised to secure the PDP’s support for the president ahead of the 2027 general election.
“Anyone dealing with Wike and his group has essentially agreed to work for President Tinubu in 2027,” Makinde said. “We leave it to Nigerians to judge. We do not begrudge them; anyone is free to support whom they choose, but they should be transparent about their positions.”
The governor further encouraged the people of Bauchi State to remain resilient in the face of leadership challenges. He noted that while difficulties may persist, “joy will surely come in the morning.” He also prayed that the sacrifices made during the 30 days of Ramadan would not be in vain.
Reaffirming party loyalty and rule of law
In his response, the Governor of Bauchi State, expressed his appreciation to his colleague for the visit. He described Makinde as a patriot who remains committed to the Nigerian project and a pillar of support within the PDP Governors’ Forum.
“It is only a few of us who remain steadfast in the PDP from the original group,” Mohammed noted, praising Makinde’s focus and his contributions to the development of Oyo State and the nation at large.
Navigating legal and political hurdles
Governor Mohammed addressed the ongoing internal friction, stating that the party is not calling for reconciliation through unconventional means but is following the solutions midwifed by the Court of Appeal.
“We are law-abiding and believe in the rule of law,” he added, noting that no political or national dispute is truly irreconcilable. He expressed gratitude for Makinde’s solidarity during his own recent challenges, stating that despite being in the opposition, humility and divine support have consistently led to victory.
Makinde was accompanied on the visit by Seriake Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa State, alongside other high-ranking government officials.
