Atiku’s Exit Won’t Affect PDP — Seyi Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has dismissed concerns that the resignation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would destabilize the party.

Speaking to journalists in Akure on Wednesday, Makinde said, “I don’t think that will make any dent on PDP as a party. PDP is an institution and you have freedom of entrance and exit.”

Atiku had earlier announced his departure from the PDP in Adamawa.

Makinde, who was the keynote speaker at a colloquium marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, also downplayed any threat from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying it was merely one of many political parties competing in the same space.

On the theme of the lecture — “The Role of Nigeria’s Traditional Institutions in Nation Building: Impediments, Impacts, and Prospects” — Makinde emphasized the critical role of traditional rulers in governance and national unity.

“Long before Nigeria’s formal administrative systems took root, traditional rulers dispensed justice, upheld values, coordinated local security, and kept communities united. Today, they remain custodians of grassroots trust. And nation-building that ignores them does so at its peril. No wonder politicians continue to seek their blessings and validation,” he said.

Makinde added that empowering traditional institutions goes beyond cultural preservation and is vital for effective governance. He noted that Oyo State had successfully integrated them into its governance structure.

“Nation-building is not about how much oil we produce, but about the strength of our institutions, their ability to serve justly, and the legacy they leave behind,” he said.

In response, Oba Aladelusi appreciated the governor and reiterated the need for constitutional backing to strengthen traditional institutions. He also praised the people of Akure and the state government for their continued support of the Deji’s palace.