Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde
By OLA MODUPE, Akure –
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has dismissed concerns over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) asserting it would not weaken the party.
Governor Makinde stated this while addressing journalists on Wednesday in Akure at a colloquium marking the 10th coronation anniversary of Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, Deji of Akure.
He said, “I don’t think [Atiku’s exit] will make any dent on PDP as a party. PDP is an institution, and you have freedom of entrance and exit.”
Makinde also downplayed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a threat, describing it as “a mere political party intended to contest elections like PDP.”
Delivering the keynote address titled “ _The Role of Nigeria’s Traditional Institutions in Nation Building: Impediments, Impacts, and Prospects,”_ Makinde emphasized the enduring relevance of traditional institutions. “They are not relics of the past but enduring pillars of identity, legitimacy, and communal cohesion,” he stated.
He highlighted their historical role in dispensing justice, ensuring security, and uniting communities, adding, “Nation-building that ignores them does so at its peril. No wonder politicians continue to seek their blessings and validation.”
Makinde noted that his administration in Oyo State has integrated traditional institutions into governance, yielding significant success. “Strengthening traditional institutions is not just about cultural preservation; it is strategic governance,” he said.
He stressed that nation-building hinges on the strength of institutions and their ability to serve justly, rather than mere economic output like oil production.
Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, in his remarks, praised Makinde’s insights and underscored the pivotal role of traditional institutions in nation-building, calling for constitutional reforms to strengthen them.
He also commended the unity in Akure and thanked the Ondo State government, as well as the town’s sons and daughters, for their support to the Deji palace.
