‘The Only Defection Nigerians Need…’ — Makinde Jabs Politicians

• Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has dismissed recent waves of political defections, saying the only “defection that truly matters” is the defection of hunger and hardship from Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections,Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said that the most important defection in Nigeria’s political landscape is yet to happen — the “defection of hunger and hardship.”

In his latest bi-monthly newsletter, the governor, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reacted to the recent mass defections of politicians from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that such political movements do not address the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

Makinde wrote:

“I am sure many of you have been following the recent defections of politicians, especially governors who have left the PDP for the APC and other parties. With these defections, political pundits have been busy reading meanings into every handshake and silence. But for me, the only defection that truly matters is the one that has not happened yet — the defection of hunger.”

He lamented that millions of families continue to face rising hunger, poverty, and inequality, adding that Nigerians are forced to make impossible choices daily.

DON’T MISS: List of PDP Governors, States as Defection Hits Party (FULL LIST)

“These are the real issues, not political realignment. While the rich are adjusting, the poor are sinking, and that is what must command our attention,” he said.

Governor Makinde emphasised that hunger, not partisanship, is driving the growing frustration and hopelessness in the country.

Reaffirming his faith in the Nigerian electorate, he expressed confidence that the people — not politicians — will determine the direction of the 2027 polls.

“No matter how many defections are engineered, it is the Nigerian people who will decide the outcome of the 2027 elections. Our job in the PDP is to continue to provide proof that we can deliver relief where others have brought pain,” he added.

Makinde also highlighted the upcoming PDP National Convention, scheduled for November in Ibadan, as a chance to refocus the party’s mission on rebuilding lives and restoring citizens’ trust, rather than on political structures.

“The PDP must return to its roots — prioritising the welfare of Nigerians over the pursuit of power,” he concluded.