Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has opened up on his early business success and deepening political differences within the Peoples Democratic Party, saying he secured his first one million dollar contract at the age of 29, at a time the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had just left law school.
Makinde spoke during a media chat on Tuesday in Ibadan, where he reflected on his journey into business and politics while explaining why he would not support Tinubu’s 2027 re election bid.
According to the governor, the landmark contract, awarded by Mobil, marked a turning point in his life and laid the foundation for his future influence in both the private sector and public service.
“At 29, I got my first major contract with Mobil. It was worth one million dollars. At that time, Wike had probably just left law school,” Makinde said.
He described the deal as a defining moment that shaped his confidence and outlook, stressing that his political decisions today are guided by principles formed long before he joined partisan politics.
Speaking on his disagreement with Wike, Makinde said the rift became pronounced during a meeting attended by Tinubu, the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Wike, and other key officials.
Makinde revealed that he was shocked when Wike told Tinubu during the meeting that he would “hold the PDP” for him ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The President did not ask him to do this; he volunteered. Wike is within his rights to support Tinubu, but those of us who want to ensure the survival of multiparty democracy and the PDP should also be allowed to make our own decisions,” he said.
The governor noted that despite attempts to engage Wike privately after the meeting, the situation did not change, forcing him to take a clear and firm position.
“I told him from that day that I would never be part of that arrangement. Wike can support him, and that is his right, but it is equally my right to decide who I will support and what role I will play in 2027,” Makinde added.
Makinde’s comments reflect widening cracks within the PDP, with the party now split into two major tendencies. One faction, led by Wike, is perceived to be aligned with Tinubu ahead of the next general election.
