Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has provided a comprehensive rationale for his decision not to support President Bola Tinubu's anticipated re-election bid in 2027. This firm position highlights the escalating internal divisions within Nigeria's main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Early Success and a Contrast in Journeys
During an interactive media session held in Ibadan on Tuesday, Governor Makinde traced his political independence back to his professional achievements long before entering politics. He revealed a pivotal moment in his career: securing a major contract with the oil multinational Mobil at the age of 29.
The deal was worth approximately one million dollars, a sum he described as life-changing and foundational for his subsequent business success. Makinde contrasted this period with the career stage of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, a key figure in the ongoing PDP schism.
"At the time I got that contract, Wike had probably just left law school," Makinde stated, using the anecdote to underscore a trajectory shaped by personal enterprise rather than political patronage.
The Breaking Point: Wike's Pledge to Tinubu
The governor pinpointed the exact moment his rift with Minister Wike became irreconcilable. He recounted a high-level meeting attended by President Bola Tinubu, Wike, the President's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other officials.
According to Makinde, the discussion took a dramatic turn when Wike voluntarily declared his intention to "hold the PDP" for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls. Makinde expressed shock at the declaration, emphasizing that the President did not solicit such a promise.
"The President did not ask him to do this; he volunteered. Wike is within his rights to support President Tinubu. But those of us who want to ensure the survival of multiparty democracy and the PDP should also be allowed to make our own decisions," Makinde argued.
A Stand for Party Autonomy and Democracy
Governor Makinde stressed that his core principle is the preservation of a strong, independent opposition to ensure healthy democratic competition. He stated that he immediately informed Wike of his disapproval after the controversial meeting.
"I told him from that day that I would never be part of this. Wike can support Tinubu, and that is within his right, but it is equally my right to decide who I will support and what role I will play in 2027," Makinde asserted.
Despite attempts at reconciliation, the governor said the fundamental disagreement remains, compelling him to publicly affirm his stance. This development solidifies the split within the PDP into two clear factions:
- A camp led by Nyesom Wike, perceived as aligning with the interests of President Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
- A camp spearheaded by Seyi Makinde, which insists on PDP autonomy, internal unity, and a viable multi-party system.
The public airing of these grievances on December 23, 2025, signals deepening turmoil for the opposition party as the next electoral cycle approaches.
