The two surviving governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, have expressed divergent views on the way forward for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The differing positions emerged during Makinde’s visit to Bauchi State, where both leaders discussed the crisis within the party and the need to reposition it for future elections. The meeting was closely watched by political observers, as the PDP continues to grapple with internal divisions and leadership disputes.
Governor Makinde maintained a strong position against reconciliation with the AbdulRaman Muhammad-led National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC), warning that any reconciliation move involving certain political actors would amount to indirect support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election.
Makinde revealed that he had previously made public that he attended a meeting with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and President Tinubu, where, according to him, a promise was made regarding the PDP’s position toward the 2027 election. He argued that any PDP member or group aligning with Wike and his political camp would effectively be supporting Tinubu’s continuation in office beyond 2027.
He stated that the PDP must remain independent and strong as an opposition party, stressing that the party should not enter into any arrangement that could weaken its chances in future elections. According to him, despite the ruling party controlling the government and what he described as the judiciary, the PDP still has the support of the Nigerian people.
However, Governor Bala Mohammed took a different position, expressing optimism that the party would eventually resolve its internal crisis and come together before the next general election. He emphasised the importance of unity within the party, noting that internal divisions could weaken the PDP’s chances of returning to power at the national level.
Bala Mohammed said that political parties often go through internal crises, but what matters most is the ability of party leaders to reconcile and move forward in the interest of the party and the country. He expressed confidence that the PDP would overcome its current challenges through dialogue, negotiation, and compromise among party stakeholders.
Political analysts say the disagreement between the two governors reflects the broader divisions within the PDP, particularly over leadership issues and alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. The party has been dealing with internal conflicts since the last general elections, with disagreements over party leadership, strategy, and relationships with members who are perceived to be working with the ruling party.
The AbdulRaman Muhammad-led National Caretaker Working Committee has been at the centre of the controversy, with some party members supporting the committee as a stabilising structure, while others believe it is not in the best interest of the party.
Observers say Makinde’s comments suggest a hardline stance against any form of political cooperation that could benefit the ruling party, while Bala Mohammed’s position reflects a more conciliatory approach aimed at preserving party unity.
The meeting between the two governors is seen as significant because they are among the most prominent remaining PDP governors in the country, and their positions could influence the direction the party will take in the coming months.
As the 2027 general election gradually approaches, the PDP is expected to intensify internal consultations and reconciliation efforts to strengthen the party and present a united front. However, the differences in opinion among key party leaders indicate that the road to unity may not be easy.
For now, the PDP faces the challenge of resolving its internal disputes while also positioning itself as a strong opposition capable of competing effectively in future elections. The outcome of the ongoing discussions among party leaders will likely determine the party’s strength and strategy heading into the 2027 political season.
