SDP Warns PDP Against Turning Oyo Into Political Battleground Ahead of 2027 Elections

As political activities gradually intensify ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Oyo State has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to avoid actions that could destabilize the state. The warning follows reported incidents of violence that occurred during the PDP’s local government congress held in Ibadan on Saturday.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan, the Oyo State Chairman of the SDP, Michael Okunlade, urged political actors to prioritize peace and responsible conduct. He emphasized that Oyo State, popularly known as the Pace-Setter State, has maintained a reputation as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria and should not become a theatre of political conflict as preparations for the next national elections begin.

Okunlade’s appeal came after reports that suspected political thugs disrupted congress activities organized by a faction of the PDP aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The incident reportedly resulted in the destruction of several vehicles and heightened tensions within the party’s state structure.

Violence Disrupts PDP Congress in Ibadan

Reports from Opitanglobamedia indicate that hoodlums believed to be political thugs attacked several venues where the PDP faction loyal to Nyesom Wike was holding its local government congresses. The events, which were scheduled to take place simultaneously across different parts of the state, were intended to strengthen the faction’s grassroots structures.

However, the congresses were disrupted by violent incidents, leading to the destruction of property, including vehicles belonging to party members and supporters. The attacks further exposed the deepening internal divisions within the Oyo State chapter of the PDP.

The party in the state is currently split into two major factions. One faction is aligned with Wike, while the other is loyal to the state governor, Seyi Makinde. The rivalry between the two camps has continued to generate tensions, particularly during party activities involving leadership structures and grassroots mobilization.

SDP Calls for Issue-Based Politics

Reacting to the situation, SDP Chairman Michael Okunlade said the party became aware of the violence through radio broadcasts and reports circulating on social media platforms. He urged political parties operating in the state to focus their campaigns on policy issues and developmental discussions rather than confrontational politics.

According to him, the approach of the 2027 general elections should encourage healthy democratic competition rather than violent rivalry. He cautioned that any attempt to turn Oyo State into a political battleground could undermine public confidence and threaten the state’s long-standing culture of peaceful coexistence.

Okunlade stressed that political parties have a responsibility to coordinate their internal activities responsibly and in ways that safeguard the interests of residents. He added that the stability of the state should remain a priority for all political actors regardless of party affiliation.

Call for Police Vigilance and Political Responsibility

The SDP chairman also called on the Nigeria Police Force in Oyo State to closely monitor the activities of political figures and groups as election preparations intensify. He urged security agencies to caution influential politicians against exploiting their influence to incite unrest or manipulate supporters for personal advantage.

He emphasized that early intervention by law enforcement authorities could help prevent future conflicts and maintain order within the state’s political environment. According to him, proactive monitoring of political activities would be essential to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.

Okunlade further reaffirmed the SDP’s commitment to peace, unity, and discipline within its ranks. He urged party members and supporters to remain focused and dedicated as the party prepares to strengthen its political position ahead of the 2027 elections.

The SDP leadership, he concluded, would not tolerate any form of indiscipline among its members, stressing that maintaining peace and unity remains central to the party’s strategy as it positions itself for future leadership opportunities.