Oyo 2027: Makinde refutes defection claims, reaffirms commitment to PDP

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has dismissed rumours suggesting plans of his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), thereby reaffirming his loyalty to the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Makinde made the clarification on Monday while addressing PDP stakeholders from the 33 Local Government Areas of the state at the local government house secretariat in Ibadan.

The governor’s statement follows speculation triggered by his recent visit to Kano, where he met with former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, and National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso.

While assuring party members of his unmistakable loyalty to PDP, he equally revealed his plan to field candidates in all elective positions in the 2027 elections.

He further urged party stakeholders to remain united and adopt consensus-building strategies in resolving internal differences ahead of the polls, stressing that unity within the party is essential for electoral success.

The governor also announced automatic tickets for National Assembly members and first-term members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, noting that returning lawmakers would be considered based on existing agreements, including rotational arrangements.

Makinde further disclosed that all aspirants seeking elective positions under his political structure would contest on the PDP platform, emphasising that the party would adopt a consensus-based approach in selecting candidates to maintain cohesion and strengthen its chances in the forthcoming elections.