Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has countered Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent remarks regarding the leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke affirmed his commitment to the PDP Constitution, specifically its outlined process for leadership succession.

“I am fully committed to the Constitution of our great party, which clearly defines the succession process in the event of an elected chairman’s departure,” Adeleke stated. He further emphasized his support for the resolution passed by the PDP Governors’ Forum, asserting that adherence to the party’s guiding principles is essential for fostering a responsible political organization.

Adeleke’s remarks come after Governor Makinde publicly expressed support for Acting Chairman Umar Ilya Damagum. During the inauguration of the upgrade of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Makinde had claimed that both he and Adeleke were united in backing Damagum’s leadership.

Makinde remarked, “There has been speculation about my absence at the campaign finale. Let me be clear: Seyi Makinde stands 100 percent with our candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo. I am pleased that our acting national chairman and his NWC team are here. We fully support the Ilya Damagum-led NWC.”

The PDP has been embroiled in a leadership dispute, with some members, including governors, calling for Damagum’s removal. Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, recently addressed the crisis following discussions with the National Working Committee (NWC). Mohammed stressed the importance of resolving the leadership controversy, asserting that the North Central zone should complete the tenure of former PDP Chairman Iyorchia Ayu, who stepped down in June 2023.

Damagum assumed the acting chairman role following Ayu’s departure, and Mohammed emphasized that the leadership issue is a “constitutional matter” that must be handled appropriately.