Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has firmly dismissed speculations about defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing that his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains unshaken.
Speaking to journalists after a high-level meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Makinde made it clear that while engagement across party lines is essential for national development, such interactions do not translate into political realignment.
According to the governor, Nigeria’s democracy thrives best when there is a strong and credible opposition that can offer alternative ideas, promote accountability, and ensure balanced governance.
He noted that remaining in the PDP is a conscious decision aimed at preserving bi-partisan democracy rather than weakening it through mass defections.
Governor Makinde emphasized that his meeting with President Tinubu was purely in the national interest, focused on governance, unity, and collaborative efforts to move the country forward.
He cautioned against interpreting constructive dialogue between leaders of different political parties as an intention to cross over to the ruling party.
“I believe in engaging for the progress of Nigeria, but I also believe that democracy is healthiest when multiple parties are strong and functional,” the governor said, adding that political pluralism is critical to democratic stability.
The Oyo State governor’s position comes amid growing political realignments nationwide, with several opposition figures reportedly joining the APC.
Makinde’s stance, however, underscores his resolve to strengthen democratic institutions by sustaining a viable opposition platform.
