Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has urged the Peoples Democratic Party to unite and rebuild to better serve Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Board of Governors of the Peoples Democratic Institute in Abuja, Makinde emphasized that Nigerians are now aware of the contrasting governance styles of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress.
“As we approach 2027, it is clear that the PDP must offer real hope for Nigeria. By revitalizing the PDI, we are laying that foundation,” Makinde stated. “Our country needs direction, and Nigerians are looking to the PDP to provide an ideological base.”
Makinde encouraged politicians to consider their legacy, noting, “Players will come and go, but you must be remembered for something.”
He expressed optimism about the newly inaugurated PDI Board of Governors and its roadmap, developed under the guidance of Director-General Dr. Edward, which he believes will solidify the PDP’s ideological foundation.
Reflecting on his own journey, Makinde thanked the PDP for the platform it provided him to serve Oyo State.
“Since 2019, I have benefited from this party. I promise not to pollute the well from which I have drawn,” he affirmed, committing to upholding the party’s values, vision, and mission.
Makinde commended efforts to revitalize the PDI, recognizing its contribution to national development under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“During those years, the PDI contributed positively to governance,” he noted.
Turning to Nigeria’s present challenges, Makinde contrasted the “golden years” of PDP governance with recent setbacks under the APC, highlighting the PDP’s past achievements, including debt forgiveness and fostering international partnerships—achievements that he says have since deteriorated. “Senator Abba Moro pointed out the differences between the PDP and APC,” Makinde added. “The PDI’s roadmap is essential to distinguish our party’s approach from others.”
Makinde expressed confidence in PDI’s leadership under Ambassador Arapaja, saying, “I am certain they understand the task and will work to actualize the vision of a revitalized PDP.”
Drawing an analogy, Makinde said, “My people say, if a woman marries two men, she will know the difference. Nigeria has experienced both the PDP and APC in governance, and I believe they’re ready to return to the husband of their youth.”
He called for unity within the PDP, especially as the Ondo State election approaches, saying, “We must go as one united party, ensuring no rigging will succeed,” highlighting the PDP’s popularity and strong candidates.
Emphasizing the party’s commitment to youth inclusion, Makinde stated, “The PDP is the only party that has empowered youth in Nigeria, and the PDI will expand that space. I am committed to ensuring that young people have opportunities to engage in the political process.”
Makinde concluded by presenting the PDI’s roadmap as the starting point of the PDP’s pledge to rebuild Nigeria. “We will fix the PDP, and the PDP will fix Nigeria. That will be the foundation of real hope for Nigerians,” he declared. “When the history of Nigeria is written, let us be remembered as the ones who stood for the Nigerian dream.”
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki echoed Makinde’s call for rebuilding, stressing the need to focus on ideas and philosophies over personal ambitions.
“Let’s stop fixating on who will run in 2027 and instead build a foundation for ideas and policies,” Saraki said.
Senate Majority Leader Abba Moro also urged the PDP to adhere to its foundational principles, emphasizing the need to implement past recommendations to strengthen the party’s role in Nigeria’s progress.