Former federal lawmaker Shina Peller has described the strategic alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement as a critical intervention needed to preserve Nigeria’s democracy amid growing political tensions within the opposition landscape.

Peller made the remarks during a special prayer session held in Iseyin to commemorate his 50th birthday, where he delivered a strong critique of the country’s current political environment and expressed support for a new political direction.

The former representative of the Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency accused a small group of individuals of taking control of the PDP, warning that future generations would question decisions currently being made within the party.

“The PDP has been hijacked by a few,” Peller said. “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.”

According to him, the emerging coalition between the PDP and APM goes beyond political calculations and should instead be seen as an effort to protect Nigeria’s democratic system from what he described as unhealthy power struggles.

“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,” he stated.

Peller also reaffirmed his support for Seyi Makinde, describing the Oyo State governor as one of the few political leaders who has remained steadfast despite growing political pressure and internal divisions.

“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.”

Although he lost his senatorial bid in 2023, Peller hinted at renewed political ambitions for the Oyo North Senatorial District, saying the period outside public office had strengthened his connection with the people.

“Since 2023, I have spent over 50 per cent of my time at home with my people,” he said. “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 event attracted prominent political, religious and business figures from across the country. Islamic cleric Sheikh Sulaiman Farouk Onikijipa, who delivered the guest lecture, described Peller as “a lover of God.”

Among those present were the Chief Imams of Ogbomosoland and Iseyin, Alhaji Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara II and Imam Olokuta, as well as Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, the 2023 Lagos State PDP governorship candidate.