Makinde Rules Out Defection After Meeting Tinubu

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has dismissed speculation that he plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
Speaking with journalists after a closed-door meeting with the President at the State House on Thursday, Makinde stated clearly that he remains comfortable in the PDP despite the recent wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“No, I’m comfortable in the PDP,” the governor said.
Makinde explained that his visit to President Tinubu was strictly centred on governance and national issues, not partisan politics.
“The President is the President of Nigeria, not the President of APC. We are talking about governance here. I came to discuss some governance issues, basically,” he said.
Reacting to questions about whether his meeting with the President and reported tensions within the PDP signalled a possible defection, Makinde reiterated his loyalty to the opposition party, stressing that cooperation with the Federal Government does not amount to abandoning party principles.
He emphasised the importance of bipartisan collaboration on issues of national concern, noting that Nigeria’s challenges require collective effort across party lines.
“There are times when you need a bipartisan approach. It shouldn’t be APC talking alone or PDP talking alone. When you get to that point, you need everyone on board,” he said.
Makinde further argued that a strong opposition remains vital for Nigeria’s democracy, especially as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
According to him, working harmoniously with the ruling party on governance matters does not weaken the PDP or its role as an opposition party.
“We belong to different political parties, but Nigeria is a project that concerns all Nigerians. Issues like national security and poverty have no party colouration,” he said.
The governor added that leaders at all levels must continue to consult and work together to improve the welfare of citizens and make life better for Nigerians.