The Forum of State Chairmen of Nigeria's main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) paid a high-profile courtesy visit to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Thursday evening, lavishing praise on his role in steadying the party's ship ahead of its pivotal National Elective Convention next week.
The gathering, held at the Oyo State Government Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, brought together chairmen from PDP-controlled states and opposition strongholds alike.
Led by Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the Edo State PDP chairman and head of the forum, the group showered encomiums on Makinde for his "unwavering commitment" to internal cohesion and his "visionary leadership" in navigating recent turbulences.
"Governor Makinde has been the anchor of stability in our great party," Aziegbemi declared, according to a statement from the party.
"His dedication to inclusivity has not only strengthened the PDP but has radiated across the nation."
The chairmen unanimously commended Makinde's efforts to promote transparency and bridge divides, especially as the party grapples with challenges from dissenting factions.
The visit comes just days before the landmark Ibadan 2025 convention, set for November 15-16 at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State, Makinde's home turf.
Billed as a "turning point" for the PDP, the event will feature elections for 19 key National Working Committee (NWC) positions, setting the stage for the party's strategy in the 2027 general elections.
In a bold move, the state chairmen threw their full weight behind the Umar Damagum-led NWC, pledging collaboration with all party organs to ensure the convention's success.
"In the face of adversity, Governor Makinde has stabilized our ship, ensuring that Ibadan 2025 becomes a reality and a pathway to victory in 2027," the forum stated.
The endorsement arrives against a backdrop of deepening PDP crisis, with reports indicating that Makinde and allied governors are regrouping to counter the influence of former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike's faction.
Sources close to the Oyo governor have revealed ongoing meetings to overturn a court injunction and reclaim control of party structures, zonal leadership, and convention logistics.
The infighting has cast a shadow over preparations, but Thursday's show of solidarity signals a push toward reconciliation.
Makinde, who has positioned himself as a unifying figure within the PDP, has repeatedly called for "fairness, inclusivity, and open debate" in the lead-up to the convention.
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