Makinde Reportedly Eyes NDC Move As PDP Crisis Deepens
Makinde Eyes NDC Move As PDP Crisis Deepens
…Dickson Lobbies Oyo Gov Amid ADC Tensions
…April 8 Stakeholders’ Meeting to Shape Succession Decision
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, is reportedly considering a possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the emerging Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), as internal crises continue to shake the opposition party at both national and state levels. Eagles Sight News has gathered.
According to a report gathered by Eaglessightnews on Osun Defender , sources revealed over the weekend that former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, has intensified moves to woo Makinde into the NDC, presenting the platform as a more stable alternative amid growing dissatisfaction within the PDP.
Findings indicate that the move is gaining momentum, especially among party stakeholders and the remaining PDP governors who are frustrated by the lingering internal disputes and recent developments within the coalition African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Last Wednesday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the derecognition of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC), citing ongoing legal battles linked to the party’s adoption by opposition figures.
In Oyo State, the PDP’s internal succession race has further exposed divisions following the screening of governorship aspirants.
Those screened by the committee led by Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN) include House of Representatives member representing Ibadan South-West/North-East, Adedeji Olajide (Odidiomo); Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran; former Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Planning under the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Bimbo Adekanmbi; Director-General of the Agribusiness Development Agency, Debo Akande; and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, among others.
However, insiders say that beyond the screening process, some aspirants are believed to enjoy the governor’s confidence.
While Makinde has maintained publicly that competence and loyalty will guide his decision, sources suggest he is inclined toward technocratic and reform-driven candidates who align with his governance style.
A senior party figure in Ibadan explained, “The governor is not just looking for a successor; he is looking for continuity of his policy direction. That is why those who understand his economic reforms, infrastructure drive, and administrative approach are being quietly assessed beyond the surface of the screening exercise.”
At the national level, the PDP crisis remains unresolved, with tensions between Makinde and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, further deepening divisions. The struggle for control of party structures has resulted in multiple factions across the country.
The situation escalated after INEC recognised officials that emerged from the party’s recent National Convention, a move seen as strengthening Wike’s influence within the PDP.
Amid the uncertainty, Makinde is expected to meet with key PDP stakeholders in Oyo State on April 8 in what insiders describe as a decisive consultation. The outcome is likely to determine his political direction, including whether he remains in the PDP or aligns with the NDC.
A source close to the governor told newsmen, “This is not a decision he will take lightly. He understands the implications for Oyo State and for national politics. The April 8 meeting is about listening to the people who have stood with him politically and weighing all available options carefully. The date has been communicated to relevant stakeholders since two weeks ago.”
On Dickson’s lobbying efforts, another insider revealed, “Senator Dickson has made a strong case that the NDC can provide a fresh start. His argument is that the PDP, in its current form, may not be salvageable before the next election cycle. He believes leaders like Makinde are crucial.
“If Makinde eventually moves, it will not just be about him. It will affect the entire political structure in Oyo. Those seen as aligned with him, especially among the aspirants, will likely follow, and that could significantly alter the balance ahead of 2027,” the insider noted further.