Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has publicly declared his opposition to President Bola Tinubu's potential re-election bid in 2027, exposing deepening fractures within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A Firm Stance Against Tinubu's 2027 Ambition
During a media interaction held in Ibadan on Tuesday, Governor Makinde made his position clear, signaling a significant political divergence. His statement is seen as a major blow to any potential cross-party support for the incumbent president's future political plans.
The governor used the platform not only to discuss national politics but also to reflect on his personal journey, drawing a sharp contrast with a prominent figure from a rival political camp.
Early Career Triumph and a Jab at Wike
In a revealing moment, Makinde recounted a landmark achievement from his youth. At the age of 29, he secured his first major contract with the oil giant Mobil, which was worth $1 million.
He pointedly noted that this significant business accomplishment occurred around the time the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had likely only just graduated from law school. This comparison was widely interpreted as a verbal shot aimed at diminishing Wike's stature and experience.
Implications for PDP and National Politics
Makinde's dual announcement carries weighty consequences. Firstly, his rejection of Tinubu's 2027 bid solidifies his stance as a core opposition figure and could influence other PDP governors.
Secondly, the pointed remark about Minister Wike exacerbates the existing internal rift within the PDP, highlighting the personal and political tensions between the party's factions. This public airing of grievances suggests the battle for the soul of the main opposition party is far from over.
The governor's media chat has successfully shifted political discourse, focusing attention on both the future presidential race and the unresolved conflicts plaguing the PDP.
