Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the current turmoil within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a challenging period for both the party and Nigeria’s democracy, following the recent Appeal Court judgment on its leadership dispute.

Makinde made the remarks during a Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting led by Tanimu Turaki on Tuesday. Reacting to the court’s ruling delivered on Monday, he acknowledged the difficulties in the country’s political landscape but remained optimistic that the situation would improve.

“It’s a challenging period for us and for democracy in Nigeria. I’ve consulted with knowledgeable individuals involved in the country’s political evolution, and none have seen a political landscape like what we’re witnessing today. But we’re not deterred. I can say, personally and on behalf of my chairman, that when the story of this period is told, history will find us on the side of the people. This period will pass,” he said.

The governor added: “Whatever role we choose to play—as individuals and collectively as a party—we must be conscious of how history will judge our actions. As the Bible says, ‘Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.’”

Makinde emphasized that despite the ongoing crisis within the opposition, party leaders must remain mindful of their responsibilities and the long-term implications of their actions. He urged members to focus on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, expressing hope that current political tensions would eventually subside.

The BoT convened an emergency meeting on Tuesday at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge. Chaired by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, the session included key party figures such as Tanimu Turaki, Umar Damagum, former PDP Deputy National Chairman Bode George, ex-Information Minister Jerry Gana, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, and several other prominent members.