News, Politics, Trending

No Retreat, No Surrender: Makinde Locks In Oyo PDP Congress for 2027 Battle

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 24th, 2026.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)congress conducted in the state in November 2025 remains valid, declaring that its outcome will stand regardless of ongoing disputes within the party.

The governor made this known on Monday during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held at the Local Government Service Commission in Ibadan, where party leaders, political appointees, and key loyalists gathered to assess the PDP’s direction ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to reports by The Punch and The Guardian Nigeria, the meeting comes amid heightened tensions within the PDP at the national level.

Makinde’s position follows lingering controversies surrounding the party’s national convention held in Ibadan, which has been the subject of legal battles and internal disagreements. Conflicting court rulings and factional disputes — including divisions linked to allies of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory — have further deepened uncertainty over the party’s leadership structure.

Despite these challenges, Makinde expressed confidence in the stability of the PDP in Oyo State, stressing that ensuring the party’s participation in the 2027 elections remains a top priority. He described the situation facing the PDP as involving “two extremes” , a political contest among aspirants and a broader struggle to secure the party’s place on the ballot.

“The most important thing for us is that our party remains on the ballot. That is non-negotiable,” the governor said, according to accounts referenced by Daily Trust.

Addressing speculation about possible defections, Makinde dismissed such claims, insisting that he and his supporters remain committed to the PDP platform. “We are comfortable in our party,” he stated, reinforcing his stance on party loyalty amid ongoing internal tensions.

In a bid to reduce friction and strengthen cohesion, the governor disclosed that the PDP in Oyo State is considering adopting a consensus-based approach for selecting candidates ahead of the elections. He noted that such a strategy would help maintain unity and avoid divisive primaries.

Makinde also hinted at a reward system within the party, revealing that first-term lawmakers at both the state and national levels may be given automatic return tickets in recognition of their performance and loyalty. Observers quoted in The Nation Newspaper say the move could help stabilise party structures but may also spark debate over internal democracy.

Providing insight into the outcome of the meeting, the governor explained that discussions focused on both national political developments and local dynamics within Oyo State, particularly in light of the PDP’s ongoing internal crisis. He urged party stakeholders to intensify consultations at the grassroots level to build consensus ahead of the elections.

“We must ensure unity across all levels. Stakeholders should return to their constituencies, consult widely, and work towards common ground,” he said.

While acknowledging the legal and leadership disputes affecting the PDP nationally, Makinde expressed optimism that the party would resolve its differences. He noted that ongoing efforts by party elders and leaders are aimed at finding lasting solutions to the crisis.

Political analysts, as noted by Daily Times, believe that how the PDP manages its internal disagreements in the coming months will be crucial to its chances in the 2027 elections.