Amid speculations over the political future of former Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Taofeek Arapaja, the party’s candidate for Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency, Hon. Opeyemi Fatola, has appealed to the elder statesman to remain in the PDP and join forces for victory in the 2027 general elections.

Fatola, who is identified with the camp loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, made the appeal despite existing differences with the Arapaja-led bloc in Oyo State politics.

Speaking during a telephone conversation with Gistlife CEO, Nifemi Peters, Fatola dismissed divisions within the party as surmountable, insisting that unity must take precedence over factional interests ahead of 2027.

The call comes amid unverified reports and political speculations suggesting that Arapaja, a prominent figure in the faction associated with Governor Seyi Makinde, could be considering a move to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Fatola, however, maintained that the PDP remains Arapaja’s political home.

“Chief Taofeek Arapaja is a seasoned politician with enormous experience and a rich understanding of party administration.

Whatever differences exist among leaders, the larger objective should be the success and stability of our great party. There is no place like home,” he said.

According to him, winning future elections would require the collective efforts of all stakeholders, irrespective of political tendencies within the party.

“We must put personal interests aside and build a united front for the 2027 general elections. Our members and supporters expect us to work together, reconcile and strengthen the PDP for the challenges ahead,” Fatola added.

He further described Arapaja as a respected grassroots politician whose contributions to the growth of the party in Oyo State remain significant, expressing confidence that dialogue and reconciliation would ultimately prevail.

Political observers believe that ongoing consultations among leading figures in the state’s PDP could shape the party’s internal dynamics and electoral strategy as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

This version avoids stating the rumoured APC move as fact and accurately frames the appeal as a cross-factional call for unity within the PDP.