In a significant political gathering, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, under the leadership of its 2023 governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, hosted prominent party figures including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola. The event, held at the Ake Palace Grounds in Abeokuta, served as a rallying point for party leaders and supporters, with a firm declaration that the PDP is fully prepared to dislodge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Major Mobilization Drive in the Southwest
The Southwest stakeholders' meeting attracted a diverse array of political figures, including National Assembly members, state lawmakers, former legislators, and party leaders from across the region. Party officials described this gathering as a crucial mobilization effort aimed at reclaiming Ogun State from the APC. The large turnout underscored the PDP's commitment to strengthening its presence and influence in the Southwest ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Adebutu Dismisses Claims of Party Weakness
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Ladi Adebutu firmly dismissed assertions that the PDP is in a comatose state. He insisted that the party remains united, resilient, and increasingly popular, despite what he characterized as political intimidation tactics by the APC. "Those writing PDP off are living in denial. This party is alive, strong, and ready," Adebutu proclaimed. He highlighted the growing discontent among the people of Ogun State, citing issues such as over-taxation, economic hardship, and misgovernance as key factors driving support for the PDP. "The people of Ogun are tired of over-taxation, hardship, and misgovernance. 2027 will mark the end of APC rule in this state," he asserted, urging party members to intensify grassroots mobilization and ensure mass voter registration, describing the Permanent Voter Card as the most potent weapon for reclaiming power through democratic means.
Makinde and Oyinlola Rally Support for Ogun PDP
Governor Seyi Makinde, accompanied by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, offered words of encouragement and strategic insight. He drew parallels between the current situation in Ogun State and the PDP's political resurgence in Oyo State, where the party overcame years in opposition to return to power. "Oyo PDP was once in your position, but today we are in government. Ogun will also triumph," Makinde stated. He emphasized that the PDP is alive and well, warning that those who underestimate the party's strength will be surprised by its electoral performance in 2027.
Former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola also addressed the gathering, calling on party members to remain united and focused. He stressed that internal cohesion and sustained grassroots engagement would be critical to achieving victory in the 2027 elections. Oyinlola's message reinforced the importance of solidarity and strategic planning within the party ranks.
Defections Signal Growing Confidence in PDP
The meeting witnessed notable defections into the PDP, including members of the APC from Ijebu Ode Local Government Area and members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party from Ogun East Senatorial District, led by Wasiu Ajirotutu. These defections were seen as a positive indicator of growing confidence in the PDP's capacity to reclaim Ogun State and reposition the party across the Southwest. Party leaders interpreted the large turnout and wave of defections as a clear signal that the PDP is gaining momentum and attracting support from disillusioned voters and political actors.
In summary, the Ogun PDP's stakeholders' meeting in Abeokuta marked a pivotal moment in the party's preparations for the 2027 elections. With strong leadership from Adebutu, strategic support from Makinde and Oyinlola, and a wave of new defections, the PDP is positioning itself as a formidable challenger to the APC in Ogun State and beyond. The emphasis on unity, grassroots mobilization, and voter registration underscores the party's commitment to democratic processes and its determination to effect political change in the region.
