Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said he remains comfortable in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja on Thursday. He dismissed speculation that he is considering defection to the All-Progressives Congress (APC).
Makinde met with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa to discuss governance issues. The meeting drew public attention amid ongoing political realignments as key figures prepare for the 2027 general elections.
Journalists asked Makinde if he plans to defect to the ruling APC, following recent defections by some PDP members.
After the meeting, Makinde said he had no intention of leaving the PDP despite political shifts. He told reporters, “I am comfortable in the PDP.”
He said his visit to the State House focused on governance matters and not on switching political parties.
Makinde added that some national issues require cooperation across party lines. He said Nigeria sometimes needs a bipartisan approach, where different parties work together for the country’s benefit, not a situation where one party speaks for all.
He also emphasised that President Tinubu is the president of all Nigerians, not just the leader of the APC. He said they discussed topics related to governance challenges, including security and economic development.
Makinde’s remarks come amid a wave of PDP defections to the APC. Some governors and political leaders have moved to the ruling party. Despite this trend, Makinde has stayed with the PDP and reiterated his loyalty to the party.
Political analysts say the ongoing wave of realignments reflects broader shifts as politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. Some defections have fuelled speculation about the future of opposition parties and presidential ambitions within the PDP.
The governor’s position matters for political stability and party dynamics as Nigeria approaches the next election cycle.
His insistence on remaining in the PDP may influence debates about opposition cohesion and strategies to address national issues through bipartisan engagement.
Makinde will continue his role as Oyo State governor under the PDP banner and engage in both state governance and national political discussions. Observers expect further political consultations among leaders from various parties as the 2027 elections draw closer.
