Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has emerged as the new Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), stepping into the role at a time when the party’s presence across Nigeria has significantly declined.
His appointment follows the recent defection of Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed—who previously chaired the forum—to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), a move that further weakened the PDP’s grip on power.
Makinde now stands as the party’s sole governor, a sharp drop from the 12 states the PDP controlled after the 2023 general elections.
As of May 2026, the political map of Nigeria is heavily tilted in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which currently governs 31 out of the country’s 36 states. The remaining five states are shared among smaller parties, including the PDP, Labour Party (LP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Accord Party, and the APM—each controlling just one state.
In a statement celebrating his emergence, the PDP Governors’ Forum described Makinde’s new role as a defining moment not just for the party, but for Nigeria’s democratic future.
“On behalf of all who believe in democracy and good governance, we warmly congratulate Governor Seyi Makinde on becoming Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum,” the statement read.
The forum also projected Makinde’s leadership as a strong opposition voice in what it called a growing trend toward one-party dominance in the country.
It praised his commitment to national development, describing him as a symbol of hope amid concerns over economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges.
According to the forum, Makinde’s leadership represents a renewed push for accountability, justice, and democratic values in a political climate where such principles are increasingly under pressure.
They further expressed confidence that his tenure would strengthen the party’s structure and inspire leaders across Nigeria to uphold democratic ideals and protect the nation’s future.
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