Loyalists of former deputy governor of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja on held a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss future of their political move ahead of 2027 general elections.
The stakeholders at its meeting condemned leadership style of Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde. This was contained in a a communique issued at the end of the PDP Stakeholders’ meeting hosted by Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja.
The stakeholders labelled Governor Makinde as a serial betrayal who consistently reneged on agreements made with those who worked tirelessly for his political success.
Arapaja’s loyalists accused Governor Makinde of persistently marginalising party elders who sacrificed all what they have to contribute to party’s growth.
COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE PDP CANDIDATES STAKEHOLDERS’ MEETING HOSTED BY AMBASSADOR TAOFEEK ARAPAJA TODAY JULY 6, 2026.
1. Preamble:
Today, a critical stakeholders’ meeting was convened by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 general elections and current Acting National Secretary of the party, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja. The strategic meeting was well-attended by all PDP candidates for the upcoming elections, including three (3) Senatorial candidates, fourteen (14) House of Representatives candidates, and thirty-two (32) House of Assembly candidates in Oyo State.
2. Key Resolutions and Observations
Following extensive deliberations on the current state of the party, the political landscape in Oyo State, and the future of its members, the stakeholders unanimously resolved as follows:
Vote of Confidence in Ambassador Arapaja:
The candidates reaffirmed their absolute confidence in the leadership, integrity, and rich political pedigree of Ambassador Arapaja. As a prominent and foundational member of the historic Molete political dynasty, his extensive experience and political influence extend far beyond the shores of Nigeria.
Condemnation of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Leadership Style:
The forum strongly condemned Governor Seyi Makinde for his persistent marginalization of party elders and total disregard for their vital contributions to the party’s growth.
Furthermore, the Governor was accused of being a serial betrayer who consistently reneged on agreements made with those who worked tirelessly for his political success.
The Inevitable Demise of Oyo PDP:
In light of recent court verdicts that have effectively crippled the party, the stakeholders observed that the PDP is practically defunct, offering no viable future or political security for its members.
Strategic Realignment and Alternative Platforms:
Based on the stark reality of the party’s collapse, the forum earnestly advised Ambassador Arapaja to discontinue his 2027 gubernatorial ambition under the banner of the PDP. The forum unanimously agreed that it is time to seek a fairer, alternative political platform that will genuinely protect their collective interests and serve the welfare of the general public.
Unflinching Loyalty to Arapaja’s Leadership:
The candidates declared their unalloyed loyalty to what they termed “Team Arapaja”. They solemnly pledged to follow him to any political party he chooses to align with, affirming that their allegiance remains firmly with him wherever the peoples’ interests are best served.
Warning to Dissidents and Opportunists:
The forum issued a stern warning to certain dissidents and former loyalists who have turned into detractors, attacking Ambassador Arapaja in exchange for crumbs from the Governor Makinde administration. They were urged to cease their hostile actions immediately.
3. Conclusion
We, the legislative candidates of the PDP, remain united and resolute to work under the name of TEAM ARAPAJA. We stand ready to transition and mobilize toward a new political dawn that guarantees equity, justice, and progress for the people of Oyo State.
