Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) not to lose faith amid the ongoing wave of defections from the party, assuring them that the current challenges are temporary and that victory is on the horizon.
Makinde made the remarks on Monday in Abuja during the inauguration of the PDP National Convention Transportation Subcommittee, which he chairs. He emphasized that the party’s present difficulties would ultimately strengthen it and prepare it for future electoral triumphs.
He urged members to stay united, resilient, and focused on rebuilding the PDP into a formidable national force.
In recent months, several high-profile politicians have defected from the PDP, aligning with the African Democratic Congress-led opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. Among them are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-presidential aspirant Dele Momodu.
Conversely, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has welcomed some PDP leaders, including Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa.
With the PDP’s National Elective Convention scheduled to take place in Ibadan, Oyo State, from November 15 to 16, reports suggest that Enugu Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri might also move to the APC before the event.
Despite these developments, Makinde urged PDP members to stay the course.
He said,
“We have members from every part of this country — the Northwest, North-Central, North-East, South-West, South-South, and South-East. That’s what makes PDP unique. They may say PDP is not everywhere, but I assure you, PDP exists in every ward of this nation.”
Encouraging members to remain steadfast, Makinde added:
“Yes, people are defecting. Yes, it may seem worse now. But when something is being built to last, it often gets worse before it gets better. Don’t be discouraged. Since 1999, PDP has been a key player in Nigeria’s democracy — either as the ruling party or the main opposition since 2015. We’re not going anywhere.”
He called on party members to “hold their corners” for the PDP and continue working for its revival.
“This is the moment when new, genuine heroes will emerge — not just for PDP, but for Nigeria. This is not the time to despair or doubt ourselves. It’s the time to stand firm and be counted.”
Makinde also expressed confidence in the leadership that would emerge from the upcoming national convention, saying it would produce visionary and capable individuals dedicated to rebuilding the nation.
“I’m holding my own corner, and it will all add up. Trust me and the leadership that will emerge. Whatever task you’ve been given, do it diligently — no matter how small — and we’ll all reap the rewards.”
Reflecting on his role, he said:
“Four years ago, I served as the Secretary of the National Convention Organising Committee. Now I’m the Chairman of this subcommittee, and I accepted because no role is too small in the service of our party.”
He urged members to view their assignments as sacrifices for the party’s revival, emphasizing the importance of logistics in ensuring the success of the Ibadan convention.
“Our job isn’t just about the convention venue. It starts before delegates even leave their homes. Ensuring their smooth transportation is a major task, and the success of the convention depends on how efficiently we handle it.”
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