Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has pledged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will take significant steps to rebuild both the party and Nigeria, aiming to restore hope and direction for the nation. He made this commitment on Thursday in Abuja during the inauguration of the Board of Governors and the unveiling of a roadmap for the Peoples Democratic Institute (PDI), the party’s research wing.
The PDI, established in 2000, aims to promote a democratic culture across Nigeria and Africa by providing education, training, research, and documentation programs. Governor Makinde emphasized that a revitalized PDP could provide Nigeria with the leadership it needs, stating, “We will fix PDP, and then PDP will fix Nigeria, which will be the basis of real hope for the people of Nigeria.”
Makinde noted the need for ideological direction in the country as the 2027 elections approach, underlining that Nigerians look to the PDP for leadership based on values and defined policies. He emphasized that the inauguration of the PDI board marks a step closer to defining what the PDP stands for, urging leaders to reflect on their legacy and commitment to strengthening democracy.
Reflecting on his own tenure, Makinde expressed gratitude to the PDP for his consecutive electoral mandates, pledging to uphold integrity in his role. “The only thing I can promise you,” he said, “is that, since I fetched water from that well, and I have been drinking since 1999, I will not pollute the well when it is time for me to exit that office.”
Makinde also called for unity among PDP members and stakeholders as the Ondo governorship election on November 16 approaches, urging everyone to work together to prevent any disruption to the election.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki echoed Makinde’s sentiments, stressing the importance of building the party on solid principles rather than individual ambitions. “We cannot have an ambition if we don’t have a party. We cannot have a party if we don’t have ideas,” Saraki stated, calling for a focus on what PDP stands for rather than future candidacies.
In his remarks, Taofeek Arapaja, the Chairman of the PDI Board of Governors and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), pledged the board’s commitment to the institute’s mission of fostering progressive ideas and training future leaders. “We envision a PDI that is not just a research institute but a vibrant, inclusive hub for youths, women, and all party members,” he said.
Dr. Edward Adie, Director General of PDI, highlighted Makinde’s efforts in revitalizing the institute, calling for continued support in funding and resources. He noted that a robust research institute like PDI is crucial for electoral success, maintaining power, and providing essential training for political leaders.
The PDP leaders’ remarks underscore the party’s renewed focus on ideology, unity, and preparation as it aims to position itself as a solution to Nigeria’s challenges ahead of the 2027 elections.