### Tensions Rise in PDP as Makinde Declares Opposition to Tinubu's 2027 Bid - Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has publicly announced his refusal to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election campaign for the 2027 presidential elections. This decision stems from a growing rift within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly due to allegations against Minister Nyesom Wike, who purportedly promised to "hold down" the PDP for Tinubu. Makinde's stance highlights concerns over the party's integrity and the implications for Nigeria's democracy, as he emphasizes the need for independent political choices within the party [https://naijaonpoint.com.ng/wike-why-i-wont-support-tinubu-in-2027-makinde-video]. ### Breakdown of Makinde's Position and the Underlying Conflict 1. **Makinde's Refusal to Support Tinubu**: - Makinde has made it clear that he will not back Tinubu's re-election, citing a commitment to the survival of democracy and the PDP's future [https://naija247news.com/oyo-governor-makinde-explains-why-he-wont-support-tinubus-2027-re-election]. 2. **Allegations Against Wike**: - The conflict between Makinde and Wike escalated after Wike allegedly assured Tinubu of his support, which Makinde views as a betrayal of PDP principles [https://thesun.ng/wike-promised-tinubu-he-would-hold-pdp-for-him-makinde]. 3. **Concerns for Democracy**: - Makinde has expressed that Wike's actions could undermine the opposition and threaten Nigeria's democratic framework, emphasizing the importance of a strong and united PDP [https://af24news.com/2027-why-i-wont-support-tinubu-says-makinde]. 4. **Personal Reflections**: - Reflecting on his past support for Tinubu during the 2023 elections, Makinde has stated that he regrets that decision, which did not yield the desired outcomes for his political aspirations [https://thewillnews.com/makinde-distances-self-from-tinubu-ahead-of-2027-explains-rift-with-wike]. ### Supporting Evidence of Political Dynamics - **Key Statements**: - Makinde has reiterated that Wike is free to support Tinubu, but he will not be part of any agreement that compromises the PDP's integrity [https://af24news.com/2027-wike-free-to-back-tinubu-but-i-wont-makinde]. - He has warned that any attempts to weaken the PDP could have dire consequences for Nigeria's political landscape [https://naija247news.com/oyo-governor-makinde-explains-why-he-wont-support-tinubus-2027-re-election]. - **Public Reactions**: - The ongoing tensions within the PDP have sparked discussions among party members and political analysts about the future direction of the party and its ability to maintain unity in the face of external pressures [https://thisdaylive.com/2025/12/24/makinde-wike-promising-to-hold-down-pdp-for-tinubu-sparked-our-disagreement]. ### Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for PDP and Nigerian Democracy 1. **Makinde's Firm Stance**: Makinde's refusal to support Tinubu signals a significant division within the PDP, which could impact the party's strategy leading up to the 2027 elections. 2. **Wike's Allegiance**: The allegations against Wike regarding his commitment to Tinubu raise questions about loyalty and the future of the PDP as a viable opposition party. 3. **Democratic Integrity at Stake**: The unfolding events underscore the critical need for political integrity and the preservation of democratic values in Nigeria, as Makinde emphasizes the importance of independent political choices within the party. In summary, the rift between Makinde and Wike, coupled with the implications of their actions on the PDP and Nigerian democracy, presents a complex political landscape as the 2027 elections approach [https://theeagleonline.com.ng/gov-makinde-speaks-on-support-for-tinubu-in-2027].