2027: Why I Won’t Support Tinubu — Makinde Raises Alarm Over PDP Crisis

2027: Why I Won’t Support Tinubu — Makinde Raises Alarm Over PDP Crisis

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has explained why he will not support President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, warning that deliberate efforts to weaken the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could threaten Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.

Speaking during a media chat in Ibadan on Tuesday, Makinde disclosed details of a meeting he attended with President Bola Tinubu, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and other political figures. According to the governor, Wike openly declared his intention to “hold the PDP” for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, a move Makinde said was not requested by the President.

Makinde stressed that while Wike is entitled to support Tinubu, he personally would not do so. He added that Nigerians must be allowed to make independent political choices without intimidation or manipulation.

The governor cautioned that attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to weaken opposition parties could erode democracy and push the country toward a one-party system. He urged democrats across party lines to resist any action that undermines political plurality.

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On speculation about his political ambition, Makinde said he has the experience, competence, and qualifications to serve as Nigeria’s president in 2027. He cited his two-term tenure as Oyo State governor, his executive leadership experience, and his background in the private sector, where he ran a company from the age of 29.

“People ask whether I am positioning myself for the 2027 presidency. Let me be clear: I am qualified. I am even overqualified. By May 2027, by God’s grace, I would have completed two tenures as governor of Oyo State,” Makinde said.

The governor also spoke on the legacy he hopes to leave behind, emphasizing the need to build strong institutions rather than focusing solely on physical infrastructure. He argued that while infrastructure projects may fade from memory, functional systems ensure sustainable governance and development.

Addressing allegations of land grabbing linked to the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project, Makinde clarified that the 500-metre corridor for the project was officially gazetted on November 19, 2018, months before he assumed office in May 2019. He explained that the 110-kilometre circular road is designed to reduce traffic congestion in Ibadan, meet modern motorway standards, and serve as an industrial and commercial corridor to boost Oyo State’s economy.

On compensation, Makinde said his administration is taking a humane approach, compensating even residents without formal land titles, provided they can prove residency to aid resettlement.

2027: Why I Won’t Support Tinubu — Makinde Raises Alarm Over PDP Crisis