2027 Race: Makinde Says Atiku’s Exit ‘Liberation’ for PDP, ADC Coalition No Threat
Akure, Ondo State – Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed recent concerns following the departure of ex-PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, saying the move represents “freedom” rather than a crisis for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking yesterday at the 10th anniversary celebration of the Deji of Akure, Makinde emphasized the enduring strength of the PDP as a political institution.
“Politics is a game of interest,” Makinde remarked. “I don’t think that will make any dent on PDP as a party. The Peoples Democratic Party is an institution. We have freedom of entrance and exit. Anyone that will hold PDP down, it is better for such an individual to quit.”
Reports have suggested that Atiku Abubakar—who led the PDP into the 2023 presidential election—may be considering new political alignments ahead of the 2027 polls. Despite this, Makinde maintains that the party remains stable and united.
He also addressed the rising presence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, formed by defecting leaders including Atiku, Peter Obi, and former governors. Makinde dismissed any notion of threat, stating: “I don’t see ADC as a threat to PDP… If you are not happy about the tempo and pace of governance, you are free to associate and see what can be done.”
Earlier, during a South-West PDP caucus meeting in Ibadan, Makinde reaffirmed his stance, noting that the PDP in the zone remains “undivided and strong.” He likened party unity to staying and repairing a leaking house rather than abandoning it: “If the roof is leaking… are we going to abandon the building and go somewhere else? No. We will stay inside here and fix it.”
Makinde emphasized the institutional resilience of the PDP, asserting that although politicians will come and go, the party’s foundation—and the nation itself—must endure.
Key Takeaways
| Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| Atiku’s Exit | Viewed by Gov. Makinde as an individual choice—not damaging to the PDP’s institutional strength. |
| ADC Coalition | Dismissed as a serious threat; considered a legitimate alternative if dissatisfaction arises. |
| South‑West Caucus | Expressed unity and confidence in PDP’s capacity to self-correct and lead. |
Context
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Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, formally resigned from the party on July 14, 2025.
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The ADC-led coalition has drawn in high-profile figures, including Peter Obi and ex-governors like Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai.
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Major PDP caucuses in the South-West reaffirmed unwavering support amid the defections.
Looking Ahead
As the silhouette of Nigeria’s 2027 election takes shape, internal cohesion within the PDP and the strength of emerging coalitions like the ADC will be crucial. Governor Makinde asserts the PDP’s survival not only lies in holding onto its institutional core, but also in confronting challenges from within and without.
