Former federal lawmaker and Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon. Shina Peller, has sounded a clarion call for the preservation of Nigeria’s democratic fabric, describing the strategic alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) as the nation’s “lifeline.”
Speaking at a special prayer session in Iseyin to mark his 50th birthday, the Ayedero of Yorubaland offered a searing critique of the current political landscape while affirming his commitment to a new path for the country.
Peller, who formerly represented the Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency, did not mince words regarding the internal friction within the main opposition.
“The PDP has been hijacked by a few,” Peller stated. “There are steps our so-called leaders are taking today that they will regret in 10 or 20 years when the younger generation begins to ask hard questions.”
He framed the PDP-APM coalition not merely as a political maneuver, but as a necessary alternative to the “present power play” dominating Nigerian politics. “The alliance with APM is a lifeline to democracy in Nigeria. It is as simple as that. This is about preserving the system for the future.”
A central theme of Peller’s address was his unwavering support for Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde. Peller lauded Makinde’s resilience, labeling him a rare example of steadfast leadership in a volatile political climate.
“Many governors are falling, and many have left, but Governor Makinde has stood his ground. He is the only one left,” Peller said. “We believe in his vision and have decided to support him; he is leading us right within the APM.”
Despite losing his 2023 bid, Peller signaled that his eyes remain on the Oyo North Senatorial seat. He argued that his time out of office has only strengthened his bond with his constituents.
“Since 2023, I have spent over 50 percent of my time at home with my people,” he noted. “The election loss gave them the opportunity to see that I am driven by the developmental interest of my community, not just a hunger for office.”
The 50th birthday event served as a gathering of Nigeria’s political and spiritual elite. Islamic cleric Sheikh Sulaiman Farouk Onikijipa delivered the guest lecture, describing Peller as a “lover of God.”
The guest list featured a “Who’s Who” of Nigerian influence, including the Chief Imams of Ogbomosoland and Iseyin, Alhaji (Dr.) Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara II, and Imam Olokuta respectively.
Others are Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (Jandor), the 2023 Lagos State PDP gubernatorial candidate, alongside a host of business moguls, women and youth leaders both within and outside the country.
