Makinde downplays Atiku’s exit from PDP

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has dismissed concerns that the recent exit of former Vice President and presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would negatively affect the party’s fortunes.

Speaking in Akure, Ondo State, during the 10th anniversary of the reign of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, Governor Makinde described politics as a “game of interest,” adding that the PDP remains an institution that allows freedom of association.

“I don’t think Atiku’s exit will make any dent on PDP as a party,” Makinde said while responding to journalists. “The PDP is an institution. Anyone who cannot align with the party’s vision is free to leave. It is better for such an individual to quit.”

When asked about the potential threat posed by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the PDP, the governor said he does not see the ADC as a rival.

“The goal is the same—better governance. If some people feel dissatisfied with the pace or style, they are free to associate differently. But politicians, governors, and even presidents will come and go. Our country and states will remain.”

Makinde, who delivered a lecture at the event titled “The Role of Nigeria’s Traditional Institutions in Nation Building: Impediments, Impacts, and Prospects,” also called for a constitutional role for traditional rulers in governance.

According to him, his administration in Oyo State has made deliberate efforts to integrate traditional institutions into the state’s governance framework, yielding positive outcomes.

“In Oyo State, our royal fathers are members of the State Security Council,” he said. “They act as first responders, sources of local intelligence, and advocates for peace. We’ve also passed laws to eliminate ambiguity in royal succession, leading to fewer legal battles and reduced communal tensions.”

Makinde emphasized the need for stronger partnerships between traditional institutions and government structures. “We need smarter, stronger collaborations—between the throne and the office, between culture and policy,” he added.

In his remarks, Oba Aladelusi lauded the governor’s support for traditional institutions and called for constitutional provisions to strengthen their role in national development. He noted that Akure remains united, thanks to the cooperation between the Deji’s palace, the state government, and the community.

Speaking during a colloquium at the event, Professor Adedayo Afe of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, urged that the laws guiding traditional succession be embedded in the national constitution to limit the influence of governors on royal institutions. He also called for the legal establishment of Paramountcy in Ondo State.

Also speaking, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Kayode Ajulo (SAN), advocated for constitutional recognition of culture and traditions. He stressed that traditional rulers should be funded, trained in conflict resolution, and equipped to play significant roles in modern governance.