Seyi Makinde Accused of Arrogance, Threatening PDP Unity Ahead of 2027

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde is facing growing criticism for what political observers describe as an alarming display of arrogance reminiscent of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

Analysts say Makinde appears to be positioning himself as the sole “solution” within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 presidential election, despite having contributed to some of the party’s current challenges. Political commentators note that Makinde’s approach mirrors the overconfidence exhibited by Bello, who once assumed he was untouchable due to his ties with then-President Muhammadu Buhari and former First Lady Aisha Buhari. Bello’s self-assured pursuit of the presidency, critics say, ultimately backfired and forced him to realign politically after respecting President Bola Tinubu’s authority. Unlike Bello, however, Makinde is accused of having alienated key stakeholders within the PDP. His critics argue that his ambition to become the party’s presidential candidate has led to the destruction of relationships he previously nurtured, undermining party unity and his own credibility. Questions are also being raised about Makinde’s leadership credentials, with some observers arguing that past financial achievements, such as reportedly earning $1 million at age 29, do not translate into political or administrative competence comparable to rivals like Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike. Analysts emphasize that in today’s political landscape, Makinde cannot match President Tinubu’s influence or capacity to command the national stage. Observers note that Makinde, along with Wike and other members of the so-called G5, contributed to internal fractures within the PDP, weakening the party ahead of the next general election. Political analysts suggest that Makinde’s current trajectory threatens to further divide the party and diminish its electoral prospects. For critics, the message is clear: Makinde is no longer seen as a unifying figure within the PDP but rather as a polarizing force whose ambitions may have outpaced his political judgment.