Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has explained why he will not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing deepening ideological and political differences within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The governor spoke on Tuesday during a media interaction in Ibadan, where he also reflected on his early business career and political journey.
Makinde disclosed that at the age of 29, he secured a $1 million contract with Mobil, a milestone he described as a turning point in his life.

According to him, the deal came at a time when the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had “probably just left law school,” a remark underscoring the contrasting trajectories of both men.

He said the experience shaped his confidence in leadership, discipline and independent decision-making, which he believes now informs his political stance.
Speaking on his rift with Wike, Makinde revealed that tensions became pronounced during a meeting attended by President Tinubu, Wike, the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other senior officials.

At the meeting, Makinde said Wike openly told the President that he would “hold the PDP” for him ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Oyo governor said the comment shocked him, stressing that President Tinubu did not request such a commitment.

“The President did not ask him to do this; he volunteered. Wike is within his rights to support Tinubu, but those of us who believe in the survival of multiparty democracy and the integrity of the PDP should also be free to take our own positions,” Makinde said.

He added that despite attempts to engage Wike privately, the situation did not change, compelling him to take a firm stand.

“I told him clearly from that day that I would never be part of such an arrangement. He can support whoever he wants, but it is equally my right to decide who I will support and the role I will play in 2027,” the governor stated.
Makinde’s comments further expose the widening cracks within the PDP, where two major blocs are emerging.

One faction, aligned with Wike, is perceived to be sympathetic to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu, while the other, led by Makinde, insists on party independence, internal democracy and the preservation of Nigeria’s multiparty system ahead of the next general election.