Adeleke Counters Makinde on PDP National Chairmanship: Clarifies His Position
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has responded to claims made by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, regarding the ongoing leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Adeleke provided a detailed clarification of his stance through a press release issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed.
Adeleke’s Commitment to the PDP Constitution
Governor Adeleke emphasized his unwavering commitment to the PDP's Constitution, particularly in matters of leadership succession. He reaffirmed his alignment with the party’s established procedures, stating, “I stand by the Constitution of our great party, which clearly outlines the succession procedure in case of the exit of an elected chairman.”
He further expressed his solidarity with the decisions made by the PDP Governors’ Forum, of which he is an active member. “Our party must adhere to its Constitution at this critical time and at all times. That is the way to build a responsible political party,” Adeleke added.
Makinde's Support for Acting Chairman Damagum
Governor Makinde had earlier expressed his full backing for the PDP's Acting Chairman, Umar Ilya Damagum, during a public address. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the upgrade of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Makinde stated that both he and Adeleke were in full support of Damagum’s leadership.
Makinde noted, “Tongues have been wagging about my absence at the campaign grand finale. Let me declare that Seyi Makinde is 100 percent with our candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo. If Edo people want to know the difference between delicious and nutritious, they should vote for Asue Ighodalo to get what is nutritious.”
He further elaborated on his position regarding the PDP leadership, stating, “I am glad that our acting national chairman and members of his National Working Committee (NWC) are here. Whatever decision you take, we will support you in repositioning our party.”
Ongoing Leadership Crisis within the PDP
Tensions have been rising within the PDP concerning its national leadership. Several party members, including governors, are reportedly pushing for the removal of Damagum as acting chairman. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, recently commented on the issue after a meeting with the NWC.
Governor Mohammed highlighted the need for the leadership crisis to be resolved, advocating for the North Central region to complete the term of the former PDP Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, who hails from Benue State. Ayu was removed from his position in June 2023, and Damagum stepped in as acting chairman. Mohammed emphasized that Damagum’s continuation in the role is a “constitutional issue” that must be addressed.
Adeleke’s Stance: A Stand for Integrity
Governor Adeleke has been widely praised for his principled stand in upholding the PDP's Constitution and for advocating for truth and fairness within the party. His refusal to align with colleagues who support controversial decisions has earned him respect as a leader who prioritizes integrity over political convenience.
Meanwhile, Governor Makinde continues to be recognized for his dedication to justice and truth, along with other governors who have pledged their support for the party’s leadership in its ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis. Both governors remain influential figures within the PDP, with their commitment to the party’s future likely to shape their political careers.
Conclusion
As the PDP continues to navigate its internal challenges, the divergent positions of key party leaders like Governors Adeleke and Makinde highlight the complexity of the party’s leadership crisis. While both leaders have pledged loyalty to the party’s Constitution, their differing approaches to the issue reflect broader tensions within the PDP that will need to be addressed in order to secure the party's future stability
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