Makinde subtly targets Wike, says he won’t ‘go low’ with anyone

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Thursday appeared to take a subtle dig at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declaring that he does not “go low with anyone who decides to go into the gutters.”

Makinde made the remarks while speaking to journalists after the South-West Zoning Consultative Summit of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held in Lagos.

The meeting drew notable party figures, including PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke, former governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Emmanuel Udom, as well as several national legislators and stakeholders.

Addressing questions on threats of division within the party, Makinde emphasized a leadership style based on engagement and unity. “Personally, when people go low or go into the gutters, I don’t go with them. Some people are not going into the gutters. We will reach out to them. That is democracy,” he said.

The governor also highlighted the party’s resilience, noting the results of recent elections as proof that the PDP remains a formidable force. “In most states, PDP came second. This indicates that with continued effort, we can reclaim the confidence of Nigerians,” he added.

Makinde stressed that the summit reflected the party’s commitment to rebuilding a united PDP ahead of the national congress and the next general elections.

On questions regarding the zoning of the PDP presidential ticket, he said the party is not yet at that stage, stressing that unity and strengthening party structures must come first.