By Rafiyat Sadiq
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has defended the consultative meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) zoning committee held in Lagos on Thursday, describing it as part of ongoing preparations ahead of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for August 25.
Makinde, who was present at the meeting, explained that although the session was not statutory under the PDP constitution, it was aimed at fostering inclusivity.
“This consultative meeting is not statutory in the PDP constitution, but democracy is about inclusivity. NEC will take the final decision on zoning,” he said.
The governor stressed that the immediate focus of the party should be unity and survival rather than debates over the presidential ticket. “We need a party first before talking about candidates,” Makinde added.
However, the Lagos gathering drew criticism from some southern stakeholders who dismissed it as illegal. The dissenting group which included PDP state chairmen, former governors, National Assembly members and both serving and former members of the National Working Committee described the meeting as unrepresentative of the party’s southern bloc.
Despite the objections, Makinde maintained that the PDP remained strong, citing the attendance of sitting governors, former governors, the Board of Trustees (BoT) chairman and several members of the zoning committee as evidence of its viability.
“We are working to give Nigerians a credible alternative,” he said, while downplaying remarks by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. “Personally, when people go low or into the gutter, I don’t go with them.”
Divided Opinions
Opinions remain split within the party. While some southern leaders dismissed the Lagos session, others defended its legitimacy. Elder Emma Ogidi, South-South Zonal Caretaker Committee Chairman, and PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor, argued that the zoning committee had the mandate to deliberate and make recommendations.
With the NEC meeting only days away, the PDP faces growing pressure to resolve the zoning controversy and present a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
