Makinde, Bala Rekindled Nigeria’s Democracy, Says SDP Chairman

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has described Governor Seyi Makinde and Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State as leaders who have truly rekindled the aspirations and light of democracy in Nigeria.

According to him, when other governors had left the room in the past, “these gentlemen remained steadfast and continued to do whatever they could to sustain what we call democracy in Nigeria today.”

Describing Makinde in glowing terms, he he “Governor Seyi Makinde is a shining light of the opposition.”

He noted that Makinde contested the election under the PDP and won despite all odds, under a Federal Government controlled by the APC, while all the other states in the region were also controlled by the APC.

He added that Makinde broke through to emerge as the governor of Oyo State, the headquarters of the South-West, describing it as a great political achievement.

Recalling the party’s ordeal, he explained that when the SDP was looking for a venue, they made every possible effort to secure a venue in Abuja, but they could not get one, and eventually secured a venue in Nasarawa State just about two days before the convention, but were denied access.

He disclosed that they then approached Governor Bala Mohammed, who assured them of safety and support.

Quoting Bala Mohammed, he stated: “Boji, you are safe. You have our permission in Bauchi, and we are ready to host your convention.”

He further revealed that Bala Mohammed supported the election of their gubernatorial candidate in Bauchi, and they enjoyed every sense of fraternity and support from him.

He stressed that Makinde hosted the first initiative through which opposition political parties in Nigeria came together, and that initiative is still ongoing.

He observed that today, opposition political parties are reaching out to one another, presidential candidates are meeting one another, and they are sharing love and building relationships together.

He pointed out that they are among the six biggest political parties, alongside the chairman of the APM, whom they fondly call the hyper chairman.

He recalled that the APM chairman was the first to chair a meeting of opposition political party leaders, adding that he is currently chairing the meetings and will hand over to him tomorrow to continue.

He extended his goodwill to Nigerian opposition leaders and wishing Makinde well, and called on all other opposition leaders to emulate his humility, commitment to mutual democracy and patriotism.