Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Senate President Bukola Saraki have called on Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders to unite.
The duo said personal presidential ambitions should be discarded in order to move the party forward.
They made this appeal at the inauguration of the Board of Governors and the unveiling of the roadmap for the Peoples Democratic Institute (PDI) at the PDP’s national headquarters in Abuja.
The call followed concerns that presidential ambitions from leaders like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed, and Seyi Makinde himself could divide the party, which is already split into factions aligned with Atiku and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike.
Tensions gathered when Mohammed publicised his intention to contest for president in 2027, causing a setback for the Olagunsoye Oyinlola-led reconciliation efforts.
While speaking to party members, Saraki added that the PDP’s strength in the collective efforts, not personal ambitions.
“The PDP was built on ideas and policies, not personal ambition,” he stated.
He therefore urged the party to focus on addressing issues that matter to Nigerians rather than prioritizing future elections, adding that the PDI represents a new commitment to policies that reflect the party’s values.
Governor Makinde, expressing appreciation for his political journey within the PDP, urged members to protect the party’s legacy.
“What do we want to be remembered for?” he asked, highlighting the need for a renewed focus on the PDP’s role in providing hope and direction for Nigerians.
Makinde pledged full support for the PDP’s governorship candidate in Ondo State, Agboola Ajayi, emphasizing that unity is crucial to winning the state.
He urged the party to work together to counter potential vote manipulation by the ruling party.
