Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that the upcoming 2027 election will serve as a defining moment for Nigerians, framing it as a choice between the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Nigerian people.
Makinde made this assertion on Saturday during the inauguration of the new, ultra-modern Southwest zonal secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ibadan, Oyo State, named in honor of the late Soji Adagunodo, former Southwest PDP Chairman.
In his remarks, Makinde expressed disappointment with the APC’s governance, stating that it has failed to meet the expectations of Nigerians.
“The APC has been at the helm of affairs in this country, and they have woefully failed us. The people of Nigeria must now decide whether to retain them in power or vote them out,” he said.
Makinde emphasized the urgency for change, noting, “Nigerians are suffering, and there must be an end to it. We need to unite and push for change.”
He positioned the 2027 election as a referendum on the APC’s performance, stressing that it is a chance for citizens to take a stand.
Addressing internal issues within the PDP, Makinde urged the party’s leadership to resolve conflicts, pointing out, “The enemies of the party are within, not the opposition parties.”
He called for unity among members to prevent disruptions from affecting the stability and peace the party has worked to establish in the region.
Makinde also responded to speculation about his potential presidential aspirations, saying, “I am old enough to make my own decisions about contesting or not. The current realities in the country will guide my choices.”
His statement indicates a measured approach to his political future, with attention to Nigeria’s prevailing challenges.
In a related address, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke echoed the call for unity and introspection within the PDP.
“We must engage in honest discussions and reflections to heal our party and move forward together,” he said, advocating for dialogue as a tool to mend rifts within the party.
He urged party members to return to the PDP’s foundational values, stating, “Our strength lies in our ability to come together as one. It is time to build bridges, not walls, within our party.”
PDP’s acting national chairman, Ambassador Illiya Damagum, extended his appreciation to PDP governors for their leadership, remarking, “Our governors are the backbone of our party, showcasing the values we stand for across the nation.”
In his welcome address, PDP Southwest Zonal Chairman Kamorudeen Ajisafe, represented by Zonal Secretary Hon. Rahman Owokoniran, lauded party elders and leaders for their efforts in restoring peace within the PDP.
“It is imperative that we channel our collective strength towards unseating the ruling party to ensure a better democracy for our people,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of the newly inaugurated secretariat, Soji Adagunodo Jr., son of the late Soji Adagunodo, expressed gratitude on behalf of his family for the honor given to his father. He urged the PDP leadership to use the new space as a “solution house” for the party and Nigeria. “Let this edifice inspire us to seek real solutions for the myriad issues confronting our people and the nation,” he added.
The event drew a large crowd, including Oyo State Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal, 2023 Ogun State PDP governorship candidate Chief Ladi Adebutu, and Ondo State PDP governorship candidate Agboola Ajayi.
Prominent PDP figures such as Zonal Organizing Secretary Hon. Benson Aruwa, Zonal Women Leader Chief Mrs. Bosede Adedibu, and former Governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Samuel Ortom were also in attendance.
Additionally, PDP National Vice Chairman for the South, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, and former National Vice Chairman for the South, Dr. Eddy Olafeso, underscored the party’s strong presence in the Southwest.
Notable legislators, including Senator Monsurat Sunmonu and Senator Gbenga Babalola, were present as well, symbolizing the unity and strength of the PDP in the region.
This gathering highlighted the party’s commitment to solidarity and its readiness to challenge the ruling APC in the 2027 election, with a focus on addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues and fostering a stronger democracy.
