The PDP’s Path to Recovery and Reconciliation
The former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, recently highlighted the resilience of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite the uncertainties surrounding its presidential contest for the 2027 elections. In an exclusive interview, he emphasized that the PDP remains a strong and viable political force, with robust support at the grassroots level.
Saraki noted that the party’s apparent inactivity is largely due to the ongoing litigation and internal leadership issues. However, he stressed that there is still ample time for the PDP to recover and regain lost ground. He pointed out that six months ago, before the crisis escalated, there was significant interest from potential candidates.
Presidential Aspirants and Internal Challenges
Several individuals had expressed interest in contesting for the PDP’s presidential ticket in 2027. Campaign groups, organizations, and grassroots mobilization efforts had already begun, with names like Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and even Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, being widely mentioned.
However, the momentum subsided as litigation and internal party leadership issues emerged. Saraki acknowledged that the crisis may have adversely affected the PDP’s chances of participating in the 2027 presidential election, but he remained optimistic about the party’s ability to rebound.
The Importance of Reconciliation
Saraki emphasized that the only area where the PDP may have suffered a setback is at the presidential level. He stated that in politics, a lot can change over time, and the reason for the party’s current inactivity is the uncertainty caused by litigation.
He added, “Serious presidential aspirants want certainty about the platform. Once we resolve this crisis, confidence will return, and interest will increase again.” At the state level, many aspirants are already indicating that they prefer to run on the PDP platform, especially if the convention is credible and recognized by INEC. But time is not on their side, and quick action is needed.
Rebuilding Confidence and Unity
Saraki expressed optimism that ongoing reconciliation efforts within the PDP would rebuild confidence among members and stakeholders. He assured that the party will successfully resolve its internal crisis and field candidates in the 2027 general elections. He highlighted that the number one priority for everyone is ensuring that the PDP is on the ballot for the 2027 elections.
He also acknowledged that mistakes had been made, stressing that his role was not to assign blame but to offer solutions. He called for reconciliation that ensures the PDP is on the ballot for all members across the country who want to contest elections. He urged those remaining in disagreement to not allow ego or pride to stand in the way of the greater interest of the people.
Addressing Misconceptions and Defections
Contrary to some media reports, Saraki clarified that he is not officially serving as a member of the reconciliation committee. He explained that he was only approached by certain party leaders in line with the responsibility entrusted to him. He has been actively facilitating meetings since his return from Saudi Arabia, aiming to narrow the gap and ensure the party does not face unnecessary crises.
He also addressed the recent defections, stating that they were driven by concerns that the PDP may not be a viable platform for contesting elections, rather than a lack of popularity. Many aspirants simply wanted reassurance that if they ran on the PDP platform, their names would appear on the ballot.
Legal and Political Challenges
Following nearly three years of internal crisis, the PDP became divided into two rival factions. The governors’ bloc, backed by Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, proceeded with a convention in Ibadan, where Tanimu Turaki and other officials were elected into the National Working Committee. In response, the faction aligned with Nyesom Wike established a 13-member National Caretaker Working Committee.
Amid growing divisions, Wike expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid on several occasions, despite running on a different platform. On February 12, the Court of Appeal heard consolidated suits stemming from the leadership tussle and delivered its verdict on March 9, nullifying the Ibadan convention and voiding the election of Turaki and other NWC members.
Despite initial willingness to reconcile after the March 9 judgment, positions by the governors and lingering disagreements over the convention indicated that the peace process may have stalled. However, on Wednesday, Turaki disclosed that both sides have commenced renewed reconciliation efforts.
