2027: PDP Is Well and Alive, Will Shock Critics — Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed the strength and resilience of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring that the party remains united, vibrant and fully prepared to surprise its critics ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a South-West PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the governor dismissed claims that the party was in decline, insisting that recent developments clearly show otherwise.

Makinde’s remarks came amid renewed political realignments and internal debates within Nigeria’s opposition space, as parties position themselves for the next electoral cycle. According to him, the PDP’s growing momentum, particularly in the South-West, demonstrates that the party is far from being written off.

PDP Leadership Reaffirms Unity and Strength

Addressing party leaders and members from across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti states, Governor Makinde said the large turnout at the meeting and recent defections into the PDP were clear evidence of the party’s continued relevance. He stressed that those who believed the PDP was no longer viable would be taken by surprise in the coming years.

The meeting brought together several prominent figures, including the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin; PDP members of the House of Representatives from Oyo State; former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; and the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who was represented by the Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja.

Makinde told the gathering that unity and internal cohesion would remain the PDP’s strongest assets. He described the party as “well and alive,” adding that sustained commitment from members would ensure its readiness for the 2027 polls.

Call for Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

The Oyo State governor urged party leaders to focus on strengthening PDP structures at the grassroots level, emphasising the importance of community, ward and local government organisation. According to him, political success in future elections would depend largely on how well the party consolidates its base at these levels.

“My charge to you is to hold your communities, hold your wards and hold your local governments. If we do this, it will be well with us,” Makinde said, while calling for loyalty and discipline among party members.

Drawing from the Peoples Democratic Party’s experience in Oyo State, Makinde expressed confidence that other states in the region, including Ogun, would also witness electoral success under the party’s platform. He maintained that perseverance and unity had previously yielded positive results and would do so again.

Defections, Supreme Court Verdict Boost PDP Confidence

In his remarks, the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Ogun State, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, echoed Makinde’s optimism, noting that the party had once again disproved predictions of its collapse. He said the PDP now boasts functional structures from the ward level to the national level, leaving members with little reason to be fearful.

Adebutu also pointed to the Supreme Court judgement affirming the party’s leadership as a major factor in restoring confidence within the PDP, despite what he described as sustained political pressure from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He encouraged party members to remain steadfast and hopeful, describing 2027 as a turning point.

The meeting was marked by notable defections, including members of the APC from Ijebu North Local Government Area led by Hon. Akorede Fowosere, as well as members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from Ogun East Senatorial District led by Alhaji Wasiu Ajirotutu. Adebutu also urged eligible Nigerians to register and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing them as essential tools for political change.