Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has cautioned members of the Nyesom Wike camp against any attempt to disrupt preparations for the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) National Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, describing such moves as “an attempt to stop a moving train,” which he likened to political suicide.
Makinde issued the warning on Monday while speaking with journalists shortly after inaugurating the PDP National Convention Transportation Subcommittee in Abuja. He assured that Oyo State would deliver “the most successful convention in the history of the PDP.”
Following months of internal conflict, several influential PDP figures—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-presidential aspirant Dele Momodu—have reportedly joined the African Democratic Congress-led opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Meanwhile, some PDP governors, including Akwa Ibom’s Umo Eno, Delta’s Sheriff Oborevwori, and former vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speculation also suggests that Enugu Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri may follow suit before the convention.
Allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee, raising issues about the South-South zonal structure, leadership disputes in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau States, and the micro-zoning of convention positions. The group has warned that the convention could be stalled unless the party revisits these matters, with some members already pursuing legal means to halt the process.
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja last week declined to grant an interim order to stop the PDP from holding the convention. In his ruling, Justice James Omotosho dismissed an ex parte motion filed by Wike’s allies seeking to restrain both the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from proceeding.
Reacting to the development, Makinde, who chairs the Transportation Subcommittee, insisted that the convention would proceed as scheduled.
“This meeting is proof that our National Convention—the moving train—has already left the station,” he said. “Anyone trying to stop a moving train is essentially attempting suicide. My advice is simple: no matter your position or past grievances, don’t commit political suicide.”
Makinde noted that the PDP remained unfazed by defections, emphasising that “the final decision lies with the Nigerian people.”
“We’ve been in power, we’ve been in opposition, and we’ve faced challenges head-on. Defections are part of democracy. What matters is our resilience and focus on serving Nigerians. Democracy thrives on competition, not monopoly. Nigerians don’t want a one-party state, and the PDP will continue to provide a viable alternative,” he said.
When asked about his alleged 2027 presidential ambition, Makinde dismissed the speculation, saying his current focus was ensuring a successful convention.
“Ambition is secondary. We must first sustain our party before talking about personal goals,” he stated. “Our priority now is to host the best PDP convention ever.”
Addressing committee members, Makinde urged them not to lose faith amid current challenges.
“Yes, some leaders are leaving, but this is not the end. When something lasting is being built, it often gets tougher before it gets better. Since 1999, the PDP has been either the ruling party or the main opposition. We’re not disappearing anytime soon,” he said.
He encouraged members to stay committed at the grassroots level, stressing that true loyalty is tested in difficult times.
“If others defect, hold your corner for the PDP. This is when new heroes emerge—those who stand firm when it’s toughest,” Makinde added.
He expressed confidence that the 2025 National Convention would produce competent leaders capable of repositioning the party and restoring Nigeria’s fortunes.
Recalling his own journey, Makinde said,
“Four years ago, I served as Secretary of the PDP Convention Organising Committee. Now, I chair the Transportation Subcommittee. No assignment is too small. Ensuring the safe and smooth movement of delegates from across Nigeria is crucial to our success.”
In his remarks, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), Co-Chairman of the Convention Committee and former Minister of Special Duties, expressed optimism that the PDP was on the path to reclaiming the presidency.
“From the level of commitment we’re seeing here, Nigerians can see that the PDP’s journey back to Aso Rock has begun,” Turaki said.
Also speaking, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba reaffirmed that the PDP remained Nigeria’s most democratic and people-oriented party.
“The PDP is organised from the grassroots up—ward, local government, zonal, and national levels. It belongs to the people. With their support, we’ll defeat the APC in 2027,” Ologunagba declared.
Efforts to reach Lere Olayinka, media aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, for comments were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages.
0 Comments