PDP will stop Nigeria’s slide into one-party state, says Makinde

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has emphasized that Nigerians reject the idea of a one-party state.

Makinde made this statement during a visit by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came to offer condolences over the tragic loss of 35 children in a stampede and to introduce the new National Secretary of the party, Sunday Udeh-Okoye.

The governor noted that Nigerians desire alternatives to hold non-performing leaders accountable, stressing that this is only possible in a multi-party democracy.

Makinde expressed optimism about the PDP’s unity, highlighting the absence of factions within the party.

The governor said:
“This New Year has given us the opportunity to talk about happenings within our party, especially the issues surrounding the rule of law.

“There is a court pronouncement on the issue of the National Secretary. My position was clear from day one, and I will always follow the rule of law. This is the new National Secretary by court pronouncement. I said without mincing words that we will stay on the side of the law.

“2025 is going to be a pivotal year for us as a party. We do know that Nigerians are waiting for the PDP to get its act together. You can see how united the members of the NWC of our party are.

“There is no faction, and this will give a headache to some people. Well, this is the beginning of a lot of good things to come in terms of party administration and commitment.

“We are looking forward to ensuring that Nigeria does not become a one-party state. Nigerians don’t want a one-party state. They want alternatives. They want to be able to kick people out if they are not delivering on their promises. So, there is a commitment to ensuring that Nigeria does not slide into a one-party state.”

Earlier in his remarks, the new National Secretary, Sunday Udeh-Okoye, expressed confidence that the party would function effectively as the leading opposition in Nigeria and predicted that the PDP would take over governance by 2027.

He said:
“As the new Secretary, I am bringing unity and cohesion on board. I am going to make sure that from this year onward, the party functions effectively as the leading opposition party in Nigeria.

“And by the grace of God, by 2027, we will take over Nigeria and give Nigerians the good governance they desire.”