Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has emphasized that Nigerians desire a multi-party political system to maintain accountability and provide alternatives for leadership. He stated this during a visit by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday.
The NWC members visited the governor to express their condolences over the tragic death of 35 children during a stampede and to formally present the party’s new National Secretary, Rt. Hon. SKE Udeh-Okoye. The event’s details were contained in a press release signed by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, on January 3, 2025.
Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, referencing the court pronouncement regarding the appointment of the PDP National Secretary.
“My position has always been clear: I stand by the rule of law,” he said. “The new National Secretary is here based on court pronouncements, and as a party, we are aligned with this legal decision.”
Makinde also highlighted the unity and cohesion within the PDP leadership, describing it as a promising sign for the party’s future.
“Four years ago, I was the secretary of the Convention Planning Committee that midwived this NWC. Now, we must conduct the exercise again, and we are united as a party. Nigerians are watching us to get our acts together, and I am optimistic that this unity will lead to positive outcomes,” he said.
Governor Makinde underscored the importance of maintaining a competitive political environment, noting that Nigerians want the ability to hold leaders accountable.
“Nigerians do not want a one-party state. They want viable alternatives to enable them to replace underperforming leaders. As a party, we are committed to ensuring that our nation does not slide into a one-party state,” he remarked.
Reflecting on the recent tragedy in Oyo State, Governor Makinde expressed gratitude for the party’s support.
“The party leaders came to commiserate with us over the unfortunate incident that claimed the lives of 35 children. It was a tragic way to end the year. While I canceled my birthday celebration due to the incident, I appreciate their visit to wish me well and stand with us in solidarity,” he said.
The PDP National Secretary, Rt. Hon. SKE Udeh-Okoye, expressed condolences to the families of the stampede victims and reaffirmed his commitment to party unity.
“As the new National Secretary, I aim to strengthen unity and cohesion within our party. The PDP will continue to function effectively as Nigeria’s leading opposition party. By God’s grace, we will take over leadership in 2027 and provide Nigerians with the governance they deserve,” he stated.
Key members of the NWC present at the event included:
– Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, Deputy National Chairman
– Hon. Mrs. Amina Bryhm, National Women Leader
– Kamaldeen Ajibade SAN, National Legal Adviser
– Hon. Setonji Koshoedo, Deputy National Secretary
– Alhaji Ahmed Yayari, National Treasurer
– Obi Okechukwu, National Auditor
– Hon. Barr. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary
– Dr. Woyengikuro Daniel, National Financial Secretary
– Dr. Bovoa Emmanuel, National Vice Chairman, North-East
– High Chief Ali Odefa, National Vice Chairman, South-East
Governor Makinde concluded by encouraging party members and Nigerians to remain committed to the vision of a better and more democratic Nigeria.
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