2027: Gbenga Hashim moves to court Makinde as PDP power blocs realign

2026-03-19 - 09:44

By Luminous Jannamike, ABUJA Dr Gbenga Hashim, a presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has stepped up consultations within the party after meeting with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Abuja, a move that points to early shifts in how the party is aligning ahead of the 2027 general elections. This was not just another political meeting. It reflects a quiet effort to build relationships, find common ground and position key players within a party that is still dealing with internal divisions while preparing for a crucial election cycle. Speaking after the meeting in Abuja, Dr Gbenga Hashim said his discussion with Governor Seyi Makinde was productive and forward-looking, adding that they focused on strengthening unity within the party and how the PDP can play a more effective role in Nigeria’s multi-party democracy. Sources familiar with the meeting said that beyond the message of unity, the talks also touched on more sensitive issues, including how different groups within the party can work together, the direction of leadership, and how to build stronger support across regions as 2027 approaches. Hashim commended Makinde for his commitment to the PDP and for supporting the country’s multi-party democratic system, stressing that unity within the party remains key to its ability to offer credible opposition and national leadership. He said this is especially important at a time when Nigeria needs stability, inclusiveness and stronger institutions, expressing confidence that continued dialogue among party stakeholders will help resolve differences and make the PDP more competitive. The meeting is part of a broader pattern of quiet consultations among PDP leaders, as they try to rebuild alliances, strengthen party structures and manage internal tensions ahead of the next election cycle.