Makinde Tinubu 2027 re-election stance deepens PDP divisions as Oyo governor cites party autonomy and multiparty democracy concerns
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Tuesday said he would not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing irreconcilable political differences and deepening divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
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Governor Makinde made the disclosure during a media chat in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where he reflected on his personal journey and political convictions while addressing questions on national politics.
The governor recalled that at the age of 29 he secured his first major contract with Mobil, valued at one million dollars, describing the deal as a defining moment that shaped his rise in business and public life.
Governor Makinde said the contract was executed at a time when the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had likely just completed law school, a comparison he used to highlight differing career trajectories.
Explaining the origin of his political disagreement with Nyesom Wike, Governor Makinde said tensions became evident during a meeting involving President Bola Tinubu, the FCT minister, the President’s Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and other officials.
Governor Makinde said Nyesom Wike told President Tinubu during the meeting that he would “hold the PDP” for him ahead of the 2027 elections, a statement that stunned him.
Governor Makinde stressed that President Tinubu did not request such a commitment, noting that the declaration was voluntary.
He said while Nyesom Wike is entitled to support President Tinubu, other party leaders who value multiparty democracy and the independence of the PDP should be allowed to take their own positions.
Governor Makinde said efforts to engage the FCT minister after the meeting did not change the situation, prompting him to take a decisive stand.
He added that he clearly informed Nyesom Wike he would not be part of any arrangement that undermines the PDP’s survival or compromises democratic plurality.
The Makinde Tinubu 2027 re-election stance underscores widening cracks within the PDP, with two major blocs emerging ahead of the next general election.
One faction, aligned with Nyesom Wike, is widely perceived as sympathetic to President Tinubu, while the other faction, led by Governor Makinde, is pushing for party autonomy and the protection of multiparty democracy.
Also read: Troost-Ekong receives prestigious MFR honour from Tinubu
Political observers say the growing divide could significantly shape opposition politics as preparations intensify toward the 2027 elections.
