A dramatic shift appears to be unfolding in Oyo State’s political landscape as veteran political figure Abdulrasheed Bisi Olopoeyan delivers a blunt and controversial verdict: the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may no longer exist in any meaningful form within the state.
In a statement that has stirred intense political debate, Olopoeyan declared that Oyo’s political reality has effectively narrowed down to just two forces — the All Progressives Congress (APC) and what he described as “Seyi Makinde’s party.” The remark underscores a growing perception that Governor Makinde’s personal political structure has eclipsed traditional party identity in the state.
This assertion did not emerge in isolation. It follows Olopoeyan’s recent political realignment and open declaration of loyalty to Governor Makinde ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to reports, the former PDP chieftain revealed during a radio interview in Ibadan that he and his loyalists across all 33 local government areas are prepared to follow Makinde to any political platform of his choosing.
A Party in Crisis, A Structure in Control
The comment reflects deeper cracks within the PDP in Oyo State. Once the dominant platform that brought Makinde to power in 2019, the party is now grappling with internal divisions, leadership disputes, and competing factions. Political analysts note that these fractures have weakened the PDP’s institutional cohesion, making it vulnerable to takeover by stronger individual political structures.
Indeed, Makinde’s rise to power itself was built on a broad coalition of interests, including defectors, regional blocs, and opposition alliances. However, that coalition has reportedly weakened over time, with several stakeholders expressing dissatisfaction over exclusion and centralised control.
Olopoeyan’s statement appears to validate this reality — suggesting that the PDP, as an independent political force, has been overshadowed by Makinde’s personal influence and political machinery.
“Makinde’s Party” vs APC: A New Political Order?
By framing the political equation as APC versus “Makinde’s party,” Olopoeyan is effectively redefining the power structure in Oyo State. His position implies that party labels may become secondary in 2027, while loyalty to Makinde could determine political success.
This is particularly significant given Makinde’s history of political movement across parties before consolidating his influence. His ability to command a loyal grassroots base and influence electoral outcomes has made him one of the most formidable political figures in the state.
Olopoeyan further hinted that even if Makinde were to exit the PDP, his structure would remain intact — a scenario that could reshape alliances and trigger mass defections across party lines.
Implications for 2027 Elections
With the 2027 governorship race already taking shape, Olopoeyan’s remarks signal a potential realignment that could determine the future of Oyo politics. If Makinde’s influence continues to overshadow party structures, candidates may increasingly rely on personal alliances rather than party platforms.
At the same time, the APC remains a significant contender, though internal dynamics within the party could influence its competitiveness, as Olopoeyan himself suggested.
Ultimately, the statement “there is no more PDP in Oyo State” may be exaggerated, but it captures a growing sentiment: the battle for 2027 may not be about parties alone — it may be about power, structure, and who truly controls the political soul of Oyo State.
As events unfold, one thing is clear — Oyo’s political terrain is shifting, and the lines between party identity and personal dominance are becoming increasingly blurred.
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