Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a stern warning to political actors attempting to frustrate preparations for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, calling such efforts “political suicide.”

 

Speaking in Abuja , shortly after inaugurating the PDP National Convention Transportation Subcommittee, which he chairs, Makinde declared that the convention would proceed as planned and vowed to deliver the best convention in the party’s history.

 

“This meeting is just a demonstration of the fact that the National Convention of our great party—the train—has moved. Whoever is trying to stop a moving train is probably also trying to commit suicide,” Makinde warned. “No matter how highly placed, we don’t want to see anyone dead. So please, don’t commit suicide.”

Makinde’s comments come amid growing tensions within the PDP, following a series of high-profile defections and mounting pressure from allies of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and zoning arrangements.

 

The Federal High Court in Abuja recently rejected an ex parte motion filed by Wike’s allies, which sought to halt the convention, allowing the PDP to move forward with its plans.

 

In recent weeks, major party figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-presidential aspirant Dele Momodu have been linked to an emerging opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC). At the same time, PDP governors like Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), along with 2023 vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, are reportedly aligning with the ruling APC.

Despite the defections, Makinde remained unfazed, insisting that Nigerians, not politicians, will ultimately decide the party’s fate in 2027.

 

“Democracy is about conflict, resolution, and resilience,” he said. “Challenges will come and go, but the PDP remains the most experienced political party in Nigeria.”

 

He also brushed off suggestions that the party was imploding, saying, “When something lasting is being built, it often gets worse before it gets better. So don’t despair.”

Makinde downplayed rumours about his own 2027 presidential ambition, stressing that his current focus is on ensuring a successful national convention.

 

“I’ve said it before — I am old enough to set an agenda for myself. But we must have a party before anyone can have ambition,” he said. “So forget about ambition for now. Let’s focus on getting the PDP back on track.”

Former Minister and Co-Chairman of the National Convention, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), affirmed that the PDP is “on course” to reclaim the Presidency in 2027, adding that the convention will mark a turning point in the party’s resurgence.

 

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, also expressed optimism, asserting that the PDP remains Nigeria’s most democratic party and enjoys broad grassroots support.

 

“This is the only party built on principles, with a bottom-up approach. With the support of the people, we will defeat the APC in 2027,” Ologunagba said.

As Chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee, Makinde urged committee members to see their work as critical to the success of the convention, noting that logistics — including the safe and efficient transportation of delegates to Ibadan — must be flawlessly executed.

 

“Our work is not when they show up in Ibadan; it starts before they even leave home,” he said. “The success of this convention depends on us.

Makinde concluded with a rallying call to all party members: “When you hear that people have defected, just hold your own corner for the PDP. This is the time to stand tall and be counted. Together, we will rebuild and rescue Nigeria.”

 

The 2023 PDP National Elective Convention is expected to set the tone for the party’s comeback strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections, with leadership changes, strategic alignments, and grassroots mobilisation all on the agenda.