Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde Addresses Defection Speculations Following Meeting with President Tinubu
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has firmly addressed swirling rumors suggesting his potential defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The governor, who met with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, January 22, 2026, categorically dismissed these insinuations, stating his comfort and commitment to remaining within the PDP fold.
Makinde Calls for Bipartisan Approach to National Challenges
During his visit, Governor Makinde emphasized that his engagement with President Tinubu was driven by national interest rather than partisan politics. He articulated the necessity for a bipartisan approach to tackle Nigeria's pressing challenges, advocating for collaborative efforts that transcend party lines.
Makinde stated: "I'm comfortable with the PDP, and again, we may have issues where you need a bipartisan approach where it won't be an issue of maybe APC talking alone or PDP talking alone, where we will have to look at what is the best foot forward, you know, in the interest of our nation. So when you get to that junction, we need everybody on board."
This meeting occurs against a backdrop of ongoing political realignments and strategic consultations as key actors position themselves for the 2027 electoral cycle. Makinde, one of the few remaining PDP governors, stands firm with the opposition despite recent defections to the APC, fueling speculation about his presidential ambitions within the PDP.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians Highlight Political Tensions
The governor's visit to President Tinubu has elicited diverse reactions from Nigerians, reflecting the heightened political tensions in the country. Some citizens praised Makinde's steadfastness, while others criticized the meeting, viewing it through the lens of internal PDP conflicts and broader political maneuvering.
- Koyum Isiaq expressed admiration: "What I admired so much about SM is his strong belief that there will be a resolution in the ongoing PDP internal issues, left for someone else of his calibre, he really would've defected easily and would still attain the highest order in the Oyo APC structure. You have my respect, sir."
- Saheed Olawale faulted comparisons between Makinde and Tinubu: "See the person some of you are comparing to Tinubu."
- Ola Omo Akin mocked the governor: "Seyi-folden. He won’t fold ke. Fayose really demystified Makinde with just a revelation."
- Bee referenced Makinde's rift with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike: "The Ehh Ehhh pauses in his demeanour clearly are as deceptive and genuinely dishonest. We are all born with different leadership qualities, and because of a $1 Million contract years ago, you changed and wanted to bring down a leader, @GovWike, you clearly know has stronger fundamentals."
Background: PDP Crisis and INEC's Stance
This development unfolds amidst an internal crisis within the PDP, which has been factionalized since the party's loss in the 2023 general elections. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recently clarified its position regarding the PDP's factions, led by Governor Makinde and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, highlighting the ongoing struggles within the opposition party.
Governor Makinde's reaffirmation of loyalty to the PDP, coupled with his call for bipartisan collaboration, underscores a complex political landscape where national interests and party politics intersect. As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, such interactions between opposition and ruling party figures may signal evolving strategies aimed at addressing governance challenges and electoral ambitions.
