Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has secured significant backing. Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) across states have declared their full support for him. This show of solidarity comes ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for Ibadan.

Party leaders expressed immense confidence in Governor Makinde’s leadership. They also trust his strategic direction for the party.

The chairmen firmly stated that attempts to destabilise the PDP before the 2027 general elections will fail. They described these alleged plots as futile. Such actions, they noted, go against the collective interests of the party.

Strategic Moves Ahead of Convention

While publicly termed a courtesy visit, insiders revealed the meeting was a strategic political move. It aimed to strengthen Makinde’s influence. It also sought to consolidate key alliances before the November convention.

Following the meeting, Aziegbemi spoke strongly. He insisted that certain forces are actively working to cripple the PDP before 2027.

“This fight within the PDP is more than an internal disagreement,” Aziegbemi declared. “It’s a battle between darkness and light. These individuals wish to cripple the PDP. Their goal is to hand the APC a free ride in 2027. But their plan will not succeed.”

Internal blocs within the party remain divided. Critical decisions regarding the national convention are causing friction. The convention is set for November 15–16 in Ibadan.

Deep Fractures and Leadership Disputes

Reports indicate the Wike-led camp is pushing for a convention postponement. They want several disputes resolved first. Central to this crisis is the question of leadership legitimacy. This includes the continued tenure of Ambassador Umar Damagum as National Chairman. The Wike bloc had previously suspended him.

This dispute has exposed deeper fractures within the PDP. Both sides are advancing narratives. They aim to define the party’s identity. They also want to solidify its position as a viable opposition force for 2027.

The chairmen described their Abuja meeting as an appreciation visit. They thanked Makinde for his efforts to stabilise the party. However, the gathering was largely seen as a display of strength by the governor’s camp. This group is now viewed as the party’s strongest power centre.

The chairmen voiced concerns. They believe some actors are deliberately fostering division. This, they warned, would weaken the party before 2027. Such a scenario would ultimately benefit the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

By framing the crisis as a battle for the PDP’s soul, the chairmen positioned themselves. They appeared as defenders of a party striving to assert its relevance.

Reconciliation Efforts and Future Outlook

Despite his firm stance, Aziegbemi adopted a conciliatory tone. He addressed suspended chairmen from Imo and Abia States. These individuals are aligned with the Wike bloc.

“The door to reconciliation will always be open,” he stated. “Those individuals are our friends, our brothers. We will continue to see them in that light.” He endorsed reconciliation efforts. These are led by the factional Board of Trustees Chairman, Adolphus Wabara.

Party insiders noted the chairmen’s public support. It aimed to assure Makinde of nationwide backing. This support is crucial for the tough negotiations expected in Ibadan.

However, the Wike faction is reportedly displeased. They accuse Makinde’s bloc of overreaching. They also allege attempts to dominate the party structure.

Amidst the ongoing crisis, Aziegbemi reaffirmed the chairmen’s unity. They stand behind the governors and the National Working Committee. Their goal is to protect the PDP’s future.

“We align with the governors and the National Working Committee,” he affirmed. “We stand on the right side of history. The evil plans of those who wish to keep this country stagnant will never succeed.”

Whether this renewed support for Makinde will bring true party stability remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the state chairmen have drawn a clear line. They now serve not just as administrators. They are also guardians of a party determined to remain a formidable force before the 2027 elections.