The South-West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has been embroiled in a fresh internal rift following remarks by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, against Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
The faction of the party loyal to Makinde, on Monday, declared its support for the governor, reaffirming allegiance to the party’s National Working Committee led by acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum.
Speaking at the party’s zonal secretariat in Ibadan, the South-West PDP Publicity Secretary, Sanya Atofarati, said the Zonal Executive Committee stood firmly behind Makinde, describing his leadership as focused and people-oriented.
He noted that the party remained committed to providing a credible alternative for Nigerians amid prevailing economic and security challenges.
“The South-West Zonal Executive Committee identifies with and stands solidly behind Governor Seyi Makinde, whose leadership reflects stability and commitment to the welfare of the people,” Atofarati said.
The faction also dismissed speculations of an impeachment plot against the governor, describing such reports as baseless and aimed at creating unnecessary political tension.
It further criticised Fayose over what it termed “divisive and inflammatory” comments, warning against statements capable of causing discord, particularly those involving traditional institutions.
The group maintained that Fayose remained expelled from the party in the zone and should refrain from actions that could strain relations between the Oyo State Government and the Olubadan Palace.
The Makinde-backed faction reaffirmed its commitment to unity and discipline within the party, pledging continued support for the national leadership.
However, another faction of the PDP in the South-West, believed to be aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, distanced itself from the Ibadan briefing.
In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Akinloye Oyeniyi, the group described the press conference as the handiwork of impostors with no legitimate mandate to speak for the party.
Oyeniyi said the recognised zonal leadership was not present in Ibadan at the time of the briefing, noting that the Zonal Chairman, Deji Doherty, was in Abuja attending a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee.
He insisted that no authorised press conference was held, dismissing the claims as false.
The development underscores deepening divisions within the South-West PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
