Governor Makinde asserts that the upcoming 2027 election will see Nigerians directly challenging the ruling APC, reflecting growing political tensions.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has stated that the 2027 general election will be a competition between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the people of Nigeria.
On Saturday, during the inauguration of the Late Olusoji Adagunodo Zonal Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibadan, Oyo State’s capital, Makinde made this statement.
He stressed that his future political plans would be determined by him alone, stating, “No one will set an agenda for me besides myself.”
Key PDP leaders attended the event, such as Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum; Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke; former Governors Samuel Ortom of Benue State and Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State. Additionally, members of the National Working Committee and other prominent figures from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones were present.
Makinde urged Nigerians to take an active role in shaping the country’s future leadership, calling on PDP members to unite and fortify their foundation for the nation’s improvement.
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“People have been complaining, discussing, and speculating,” he stated. “I want to be clear once more: I am the only one who will set my own agenda.”
In response to claims of interference by the ruling party, Makinde commented, “If you are accusing them of meddling with other parties to stop their unity… there are certain aspects we can manage.”
He stressed the need for collaboration, especially with Governor Adeleke, to strengthen the party in the South-West. He added that “The next election will be between APC and Nigerians. It’s not just about APC versus PDP.”
Governor Adeleke of Osun State addressed the need for unity within the party, emphasizing: “Let us move beyond past divisions and come together for the benefit of our beloved party… It’s crucial that we concentrate on developing robust administrative and operational structures.”
The Acting National Chairman, Damagum, paid tribute to the late Adagunodo’s contributions to the PDP and expressed confidence in the party’s capability to regain control of states throughout the South-West region and beyond.