Makinde Cautions PDP Members Over Alleged Wike–Tinubu Deal

By Ahmed Ahmed

Oyo State Governor, Oluseyi Makinde, on Sunday led a high-powered delegation from Oyo and Bayelsa States to pay Sallah homage to Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, where he cautioned PDP members against aligning with the faction loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking during an interactive session in Bauchi, Makinde revealed that he had personally attended a meeting involving Wike and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during which assurances were allegedly made to deliver the PDP structure in support of the President’s 2027 ambition.

He stressed that while political alliances are constitutional, party members must be honest about their choices.

“Anyone dealing with Wike and his group in any guise has agreed to support President Tinubu for 2027. Support whoever you want, but go to them if that’s where you belong,” he said, alleging that the Wike camp enjoys institutional backing.

“They have the government, the judiciary, and INEC behind them. But we have the people behind us,” he added.

Earlier, the delegation led by Governor Seyo Makimde expressed solidarity with Mohammed, praising his resilience despite what they described as “personal and institutional challenges.”

Makinde extended Sallah greetings and encouraged the governor to remain steadfast.

“Leadership comes with trials. We are here to identify with you and encourage you,” she stated, praying that the lessons of Ramadan would bring renewed hope to Bauchi.

Responding, Governor Mohammed dismissed claims of an ongoing reconciliation process within the PDP, saying none had been initiated from his camp.

He praised loyal PDP figures, particularly Makinde, whom he described as “a patriot with uncommon courage and integrity.”

Mohammed reaffirmed his commitment to working with party stakeholders to reposition the PDP, expressing confidence that Nigerians would judge all political actors fairly as 2027 approaches.