By Peace Udugba.
Anyone Holding PDP Back Should Step Aside – Makinde Hits Back at Atiku’s Defection, Urges Traditional Leadership Reform.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has downplayed concerns surrounding Atiku Abubakar’s recent resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stressing that the party’s strength lies in its structures, not individual figures.
Speaking at the 10th coronation anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, Makinde stated that political alignments are interest-driven, and those impeding the PDP’s progress should be free to move on.
Makinde also used the event to call for constitutional recognition of traditional rulers, emphasizing their vital role in governance and community stability.
Addressing journalists on Atiku’s defection, he said, “Politics is a game of interest. I don’t think that will make any dent on the PDP as a party. The PDP is an institution. People are free to join or leave. If anyone wants to hold the party back, it’s better they move on.”
He also dismissed concerns over the rise of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying the political space remains open for citizens to align with parties that reflect their governance ideals.
I don’t see ADC as a threat to the PDP. The goal is essentially the same—if you are dissatisfied with the pace or direction of governance, you have the right to associate and contribute where you see fit,” he said.
Emphasizing the importance of long-term national interest above personal ambitions, the governor remarked: “Players will come and go, governors will come and go, presidents will come and go—but our state and country will remain. That is what should matter most.”
Makinde Advocates Constitutional Reforms for Traditional Rulers
Delivering a keynote lecture at the colloquium titled “The Role of Nigeria’s Traditional Institutions in Nation Building: Impediments, Impacts, and Prospects,” Makinde used the occasion to advocate for a constitutional role for traditional rulers in Nigeria’s governance framework.
According to him, the traditional institution plays a pivotal role in community development, intelligence gathering, and conflict resolution and should not be left to operate in ambiguity or ceremonial redundancy.
Governor Makinde: ADC Not a Threat, Calls for Stronger Role for Traditional Rulers
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed concerns about the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying it poses no threat to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “I don’t see ADC as a threat to the PDP. If people feel dissatisfied, they have the right to associate where they believe they can make a difference,” he said.
He stressed the importance of placing national interest above personal ambition: “Governors, presidents will come and go—but our state and country remain. That’s what truly matters.”
Makinde also used the platform to call for constitutional reforms granting traditional rulers formal roles in governance. Speaking at a colloquium titled *“The Role of Nigeria’s Traditional Institutions in Nation Building: Impediments, Impacts, and Prospects,”* he emphasized that monarchs contribute significantly to community development, intelligence gathering, and peacekeeping, and should no longer be confined to ceremonial roles.
