Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has explained why he will not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing deep political differences and concerns over the future of multiparty democracy within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Makinde spoke during a media interaction on Tuesday in Ibadan, where he also reflected on his early career in the private sector, recalling that he secured his first major contract worth $1 million with Mobil at the age of 29.
According to the governor, the milestone came at a time when the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, “had probably just left law school,” a comparison he said underscored his long-standing experience in business before venturing fully into politics.
Makinde described the contract as a defining moment that shaped his personal growth and later influenced his political trajectory.
On his rift with Wike, the governor said tensions became evident during a meeting attended by President Tinubu, Wike, the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other officials. He said he was taken aback when Wike reportedly told the President that he would “hold the PDP” for him ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The President did not ask him to do this; he volunteered,” Makinde said. “Wike is entitled to support President Tinubu, but those of us who want to preserve multiparty democracy and the integrity of the PDP should also be allowed to make our own choices.”
Makinde said despite subsequent efforts to engage Wike and resolve their differences, the situation did not change, forcing him to take a clear position.
“I told him from that day that I would never be part of that arrangement,” the governor said. “Wike can support whoever he wants, and that is his right, but it is also my right to decide who I will support and the role I will play in 2027.”
The comments highlight widening divisions within the PDP, with emerging factions holding contrasting views on the party’s direction ahead of the next general elections. One bloc, associated with Wike, is widely perceived to be aligned with President Tinubu, while another, led by Makinde, is pushing for party independence and internal cohesion.
Observers say the growing rift could have significant implications for the PDP’s unity and electoral strategy as preparations for 2027 gather momentum.
Makinde Explains Opposition to Tinubu’s 2027 Bid, Recalls Early Business Success
