By John Alechenu, Abuja

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to unite and rebuild the party to better serve Nigeria.

Makinde made this appeal during the inauguration of the Board of Governors of the Peoples Democratic Institute (PDI) in Abuja yesterday.

He emphasized that Nigerians now recognize the difference between the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in national governance.

“As we approach 2027, it is clear that the PDP must offer real hope for Nigeria. By revitalizing the PDI, we are laying that foundation,” Makinde said. “Our country needs direction, and Nigerians are looking to the PDP to provide an ideological base.”

Makinde urged every politician to consider their legacy, noting, “Players will come and go, but you must be remembered for something.”

With the inauguration of the PDI Board of Governors and the unveiling of the PDI roadmap by Director-General Dr. Edward, Makinde expressed optimism that the PDP is taking a significant step toward defining its ideology and cementing its place in history.

Reflecting on his own political journey, Makinde thanked the PDP for giving him the platform to serve Oyo State. “Since 2019, I have benefited from this party. I promise not to pollute the well from which I have drawn,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to the PDP’s values, vision, and mission.

Makinde praised those who have worked toward the revitalization of the PDI, recognizing the institute’s role under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar in providing insights for national development. “During those years, the PDI contributed positively to governance,” he noted.

Turning to Nigeria’s current challenges, Makinde contrasted the “golden years” of PDP governance with the recent deterioration under APC. He highlighted the PDP’s efforts to secure debt forgiveness and foster global relationships, a legacy that has since eroded.

“Senator Abba Moro pointed out the differences between the PDP and APC,” Makinde said. “The PDI’s roadmap is essential to distinguish our party’s approach from others.”

He expressed confidence in the PDI’s new leadership under Ambassador Arapaja, saying, “I am certain they understand the task and will work to actualize the vision of a revitalized PDP.”

Drawing an analogy, Makinde said, “My people say, if a woman marries two men, she will know the difference. Nigeria has experienced both the PDP and APC in governance, and I believe they’re ready to return to the husband of their youth.”

He called for unity within the PDP, especially with the upcoming Ondo State election. “We must go as one united party, ensuring no rigging will succeed,” he urged, highlighting the PDP’s popularity and the capability of its candidates.

Makinde stressed the PDP’s commitment to youth inclusion, saying, “The PDP is the only party that has empowered youth in Nigeria, and the PDI will expand that space. I am committed to ensuring that young people have opportunities to engage in the political process.”

He concluded by positioning the PDI’s roadmap as the beginning of the PDP’s pledge to plan for governance and rebuild Nigeria. “We will fix the PDP, and the PDP will fix Nigeria. That will be the foundation of real hope for Nigerians,” he said. “When the history of Nigeria is written, let us be remembered as the ones who stood for the Nigerian dream.”

Saraki: We Must Rebuild PDP Before 2027

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki echoed Makinde’s sentiments, urging the party to refocus on ideas and philosophies rather than personal ambition. “Let’s stop fixating on who will run in 2027 and instead build a foundation for ideas and policies,” Saraki said.

Senate Majority Leader Abba Moro also stressed that the PDP’s fortunes have declined due to a lack of adherence to its foundational ideas. He called for the implementation of past recommendations to strengthen the party for Nigeria’s progress.