Amid a wave of defections, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has delivered a rallying cry to members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urging them to stay loyal and hold their ground rather than jump ship.
Speaking on Monday, October 13, at the inaugural meeting of the PDP Transportation Sub-Committee in Abuja, Makinde told party members that “true loyalty” means defending their positions within the party, even in the face of challenges.
“From the beginning of this Republic in 1999, PDP has always been a constant factor, either as a ruling Party, or the main opposition Party from 2015.
“We are not going anywhere. When you hear news… certain people have defected, please, just hold your own corner for PDP, and this is the moment where new authentic heroes are going to be made,” Makinde said.
READ ALSO: I Have All It Takes to Become Next President — Seyi Makinde
His remarks come at a crucial time for the PDP, as the party prepares for its national convention in November amid internal debates, leadership manoeuvres, and mounting defections.
Makinde positioned the PDP as a “resilient family home,” built on democracy and social justice, and said the party remains the best hope for Nigerians weary of hardship under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He pointed to the peaceful Oyo State congress as proof that unity can triumph over division, pledging to work with other governors, the National Working Committee, and grassroots leaders to deliver a transparent convention.
Makinde closed with a vivid metaphor, likening the PDP’s renewed momentum to a train in motion. “The train to Ibadan has taken off already, and those standing on its way are attempting suicide,” he warned.