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Tag: PDP

  • Social media gushes over Uzochukwu’s philanthropy

    Social media gushes over Uzochukwu’s philanthropy

    Social media users have responded to the gestures of entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu. 

    They praised him for setting the standard for impactful giving as he channels his influence and resources into transforming lives and uplifting communities. 

    Known for merging vision with action, Dr. Uzochukwu’s philanthropic strides are not only reshaping the lives of countless individuals but also redefining what it means to live with purpose and intention in today’s society.

    From sponsoring education for underprivileged children to empowering small businesses and supporting community infrastructure, his acts of service go far beyond charity—they are blueprints of sustainable transformation.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s extension of Customs boss’ tenure draws praise from northern group, polytechnic students

     Each initiative he undertakes serves as a powerful reminder that true success is not measured by wealth alone, but by the lives one is able to touch.

    Social media user Aproko9jax wrote:“Dr Stanley Uzochukwu keeps giving back to the society in deep ways. This is just amazing! What a way to live 👏”

    Another user, OguntadeToyosi, added:

    “Stanley Uzochukwu consistently giving back to society in such impactful ways. His dedication to uplifting others is a powerful example of leadership with purpose.”

    As stories of his generosity continue to emerge across Nigeria and beyond, Dr. Uzochukwu stands as a beacon of purposeful living, inspiring a generation to embrace service above self. 

    In a world driven by personal gain, his unwavering commitment to lifting others reminds us that the highest form of success lies in the impact we leave behind.

  • Aug 16 by-elections: APC, PDP, ADC mobilise for show of strength

    Aug 16 by-elections: APC, PDP, ADC mobilise for show of strength

    • LP alleges exclusion

    The All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) are pulling all the strings for what they perceive as an immense test of popularity in next week’s by-elections in 12 states of the federation.

    At stake are two senatorial seats, five House of Representatives slots and nine House of Assembly positions.

    The polls are to be conducted for 6,987 polling units, 32 local government areas and 356 wards with 3,553,659 registered voters eligible to exercise their rights on the day.

    National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, told The Nation yesterday that his party was set and prepared for the by-elections

    “We are prepared for the by-elections in all the 16 constituencies. The same commitment we give to the general election is what we give any off-season election. August 16 election is no exception,” Bashiru said by phone.

    He added:”We have started campaign in all the affected constituencies in Anambra, Edo, Ogun, Oyo, Niger and other states.

    “With the level of our preparation, we are optimistic of victory. We are optimistic that we shall be victorious in almost all the constituencies come Saturday, August 16.”

    The PDP is also set for the polls with its candidates intensifying campaigns in the affected states.

    In response to a Whatsapp message asking about the party’s preparations, Chairman of PDP Caretaker Committee for the South-South, Chief Emmanuel Ogidi, sent a cryptic statement, with some affirmation of religious hope.

    Read Also: Osun 2026: Justice, equity and fairness ‘ll determine who emerges APC’s candidate – Babayemi

    He said: “Trust God, no matter what!”, quoting Psalm 46:1 that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

    The Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Osa Nehikhare, had earlier said that the chapter has assembled a strong team of party leaders to drive its campaign.

    “The Edo PDP is confident that this team, under the capable leadership of Senator Clifford Ordia, will drive a robust, issue-based campaign that resonates with the aspirations of the people of Edo Central,” Osa Nehikhare stated.

    Other national officers of the party contacted declined to talk.

    The ADC is also presenting candidates for the elections.

    The party’s immediate past National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, said in his last statement as chairman that the ADC was keen on increasing its representation in the national and state assemblies through the by-elections.

  • Resurgent PDP

    Resurgent PDP

    It can be safely claimed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has finally re-established its bearing as a consequential party. This was amply demonstrated in the Consultative Conference of PDP Founding Fathers and Stakeholders which held at the Nigeria Airforce Conference Centre, Abuja, on 23 July, 2025, and was convened by Professor Jerry Gana, a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party who is also a former Minister of Information and National Orientation in the PDP-controlled administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo. The theme of the conference was “Reclaiming our Legacy, Renewing our Collective Vision.”

    In his welcome address, Professor Jerry Gana invited the party stalwarts “very graciously, on behalf of all of us who are Founding Fathers representing our elders here, to kindly join me to really thank the Acting National Chairman for bearing the burdens. … Put your hands together for the Acting National Chairman and the Acting National Secretary. … Thank you very, very much.” The conference was also an occasion for reliving PDP’s glorious days and expressing commitment to repositioning the party.

    Professor Gana then said, regarding the crises rocking the party and the defections to other parties by some erstwhile members: “We are pleased to reaffirm to all of you and to Nigerians that the Peoples Democratic Party is alive, is flourishing, is mobilising, is moving. … The PDP is alive. … We are remaining in PDP. We are progressing in PDP. We are mobilising in PDP, and we are going to win in PDP.”

    He continued: “In forming the Peoples Democratic Party in 1998, the Founding Fathers were profoundly moved by timeless principles, deep-rooted values and fundamental objectives. Those leaders [did] not gather just to capture power. That is what other people do. They just gather to capture power. We were not gathering to capture power. We had very clear ideals and values and principles.” He specified these as follows: “The first two were really to terminate military rule in Nigeria and to restore democracy. … And the second part of it was really to ensure that civilian rule can be authoritative … so that the people can really enjoy.”

    Read Also: 2027: PDP shops for viable candidate against Tinubu

    Furthermore, Professor Jerry Gana said: “Hope is not lost. A new PDP is emerging. A new PDP is being reformed. It’s going to be responsive. It’s going to give excellent leadership. It’s going to move things forward. We shall not rest until Nigeria is rescued, until our economy works, until our schools and hospitals function, until security is restored, until our democracy thrives, until our national economy transforms and really creates wealth so that poverty is banished from the Federal Republic of Nigeria. By the grace of God, we shall rise again…. And we shall triumph.”

    In his remarks, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagun, said: “This gathering is more than symbolic. It is an affirmation that the Peoples Democratic Party is alive, resolute, and focused on reclaiming its rightful place at the centre of Nigeria’s political life. … Like any living institution, we have faced internal rifts, betrayals, and moments of national disappointment. In 2013, we witnessed one of such practices that shook us to our very core. A group of party leaders walked away from our party seeking new alliances. Today, we witness yet another. But history reminds us that splinters may form, but they do not define the tree.”

    Ambassador Damagun continued: “We are not easily shaken, because our roots run deep. The PDP offers more than a political structure. It embodies ideological clarity, resilience of spirit and the staying power to stand and overcome turbulent winds. But we must also confront the hard truth. Much of the injury the PDP has suffered has been self-inflicted from the Obasanjo era to this moment. We have often jettisoned ideology in favour of personal ambition.”

    He then reassured: “However, let it be said and known that our doors remain open to those who wish to return. … Our past has proven that self-inflicted wounds can be healed. If we return to our core and rise above personal interest, there remains a bright and redemptive future for the PDP and Nigeria. I want … to tell our members, ‘PDP is one.’ If you belong to PDP, you belong to PDP. You can’t have two parties at a time. You either stay or leave us in peace.”

    Bauchi State Governor, Bala Muhammed, who is also the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, also said: “Even our elders that have gone, we don’t want to diminish them. We don’t want to denigrate them or abuse them. We we are telling them with humility, ‘Come back.’ That’s what the National Chairman has said. ‘Come back. This is the house we have built where there are governors, where there are senators, members of the Houses, Speakers, offices, Local Government Chairmen. You are going to a party that has no office. How is that smart?’”

    Governor Bala Muhammed continued: “But certainly, as the Chairman has said, we cannot take indiscipline to a level where it becomes contagious. If you are in PDP, you are in PDP. You cannot be in PDP and be in the coalition or another party. … You cannot belong to two places. You cannot be a hermaphrodite. You cannot be a man and a woman at the same time. PDP is a man, and we are moving.”

    Governor Muhammed also noted: “But we will still give you opportunity to have a [rethink], because you are our leaders. But if you are going, don’t demarket us. Demarketing the PDP is not fair. Most of you actualised your political aspirations through this party. Some of them left us and caused our loss in 2015, and yet we accommodated them and they left and came back. Some of them became governors and some of them took tickets. This is PDP for you. It is only in PDP you get that [kind of accommodation].”

    In his goodwill message, former Senate President Bukola Saraki said: “I think it was Victor Hugo who said that there’s nothing like an idea whose time has come. This meeting has come at the right time and that is why I thank you all for organising it, because it is time for us to write our own story. It is time for us to provide direction for this great party. For many, they have already buried this party before now. But your presence here speaks volumes that nobody is going to bury this party. We are going to rescue this party.”

    Senator Saraki continued: “Yes, the party will have its challenges and is having its challenges. But the question we should ask is ‘Should we abandon this party because of these challenges?’ Yes, mistakes have been made in the past, but the question still is: ‘Should we abandon this party?’  I stand here as someone who has experienced being in this party and not being in this party.  I stand here as somebody who left this party with anger. Anger does not provide purpose to leadership. A lot of people who are leaving the party now are leaving with anger. … Yes, we have problems. But the other parties we’re talking about also have problems. … So, what are they offering Nigerians that PDP cannot offer?”  

    The former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi, who is also a former Senator and a former National Chairman of the PDP, in his remarks, provided the following perspective: “You see, we had internal issue, not because we hate each other, [but having] to do with the office of the National Secretary. It took legal issues [and] INEC regulation issues. Leaders said: ‘Look, let’s not walk into a trap. What does the law say? What does INEC regulation say?’ And when we saw it clearly, we said: “Let’s bury the hatchet. Let’s move to our convention united, and elect new national officers that will drive the party.’” 

    The former Niger State Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu also remarked: “… many a time, if you don’t look at your little history, you would be repeating the same problem. And I heard both the Chairman and the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum [being] very diplomatic, and [saying] ‘Come back. Come back.’ No, you don’t invite nomadic politicians back to your place. These were people with the history of nomadism. … We cannot keep on knowing that the black sheep in the family keeps on destroying whatever we’re building and then [keep saying] ‘Come back.’”

    He also pointed out: “Our party is not just to win elections. The party is also to ensure the culture of sane, real, principled politics. So, even if we don’t win elections but we are one united, principled party, we will be recognised. Please let us pay attention to what we should be doing rather than looking at those people who will never, never, ever think of you, but only think of themselves.” 

    The major test of the strength of the resurgent PDP would come in the form of how the leaders address “the Wike issue”. There is the tendency for some people to declare, without discernment, that the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Barrister Nyesom Wike, is the problem or main problem of the PDP. When on 11 July, 2025, an impassioned young female ARISE News interviewer, expressed impatience with PDP’s handling of the Wike issue ‘with kid gloves’, the elderly, experience-rich Chief Bode George, a member of the BoT of the party, responded: “He is also a member of the Board of Trustees. So, you just don’t fire people of that status. … We had had to bend over backwards.” 

    Moreover, in a 31 July, 2025 Arise News interview with former Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, he noted with respect to indiscipline within the party: “There are many people in the PDP we should have suspended or dismissed. But we are so incapable, because they have been able to use money to penetrate all the organs of the party, and now we are trying to get it back together. And our frustration is that the people that would have joined hands together to get this party in a better form are the ones who are running away.”

    From all indications, the resurgent PDP seems to be a party of the future, with that future, all things being equal, starting from 2031. In the interim, the capacity of the current leaders of the party to stay the course would be put under sustained test. At present, PDP is a dazed party, but given how upbeat key participants at the Jerry-Gana-convened conference were, it is a stupor with an expiry date; and even that date can be brought forward with focus, tenacity and self-sacrifice.  

  • 2027: Looming battle for APC, PDP in Plateau

    2027: Looming battle for APC, PDP in Plateau

    As the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) reposition ahead of the 2027 general election in Plateau State, indications are that voter sentiment, grassroots mobilisation, and governance performance may emerge as key determinants of the contest. Deputy Political Editor RAYMOND MORDI and Correspondent KOLADE ADEYEMI give an overview of the looming battle.

    As Plateau State crosses the halfway point of its current electoral cycle, the 2027 contest for its political soul is fast becoming the epicentre of grassroots agitation, elite calculations, and shifting alliances. The two dominant political parties—the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC)—are realigning and recalibrating their strategies, each intent on tipping the balance in what is shaping up to be one of the fiercest electoral face-offs in the state’s history.

    Since the return to civil rule in 1999, Plateau State has been a revolving door for these two major parties, each taking turns to govern and dominate the political scene. However, the 2023 general election introduced a unique split in governance. While the PDP captured the governorship seat through Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the APC clinched the majority in both the State House of Assembly and National Assembly, including Senate and House of Representatives seats.

    This political duality—an APC-led legislature and PDP-led executive—has defined the last two years and will shape the next two leading up to 2027. The key question on the minds of observers, stakeholders, and voters alike is, who gains the upper hand?

    A complex voter mood

    An analysis of the 2023 general election in Plateau State shows that the contest produced one of the most intriguing outcomes in the state’s democratic history. It was essentially a two-horse race between the PDP’s Mutfwang and the APC’s Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda.

    Mutfwang rode a wave of discontent, particularly in rural and youth-populated constituencies like Bokkos, Langtang North, and Mangu, where the APC was perceived as underperforming in delivering infrastructure and tackling insecurity. Analysts interpreted his victory as a rejection of the APC’s executive leadership and a vote of confidence in Mutfwang’s “people-first” campaign narrative.

    Ibrahim Pam, a 29-year-old voter from Barkin Ladi, said, “In my area, we voted for the PDP for governor because we were tired of promises without action. However, some of us decided to vote for the APC in the National Assembly contest because we still trusted our representative. It wasn’t about the party—it was about who listens.”

    However, the results of the elections for federal and state legislative seats told a different story. The APC won all three senatorial seats: Plateau North, Plateau Central, and Plateau South. In addition, it secured a majority in the House of Representatives, winning five out of the eight federal constituencies, and captured most of the seats in the Plateau State House of Assembly.

    This split decision reflected a complex political mood—a demand for new executive leadership but continued legislative trust in the APC’s experience and structure. It also set the tone for an uneasy coexistence between the two major parties, leading to intensified behind-the-scenes manoeuvring for 2027.

    Governing amid growing pains

    This state of affairs has put the PDP under pressure in governing the state, as the majority of the lawmakers representing the state at the federal and state levels belong to the ruling party at the centre.

    Nevertheless, as the party currently in control of the executive arm of Plateau’s government, the PDP is expected to have a natural advantage heading into the next election.

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who marked two years in office this May, is credited with introducing people-oriented policies, revitalising infrastructure, and instituting administrative reforms. On the surface, the PDP appears to be doing reasonably well. Yet beneath this progress lie internal unrest, leadership disaffection, and a wave of high-profile defections that could jeopardise the party’s grip on power.

    Cracks in the PDP

    One of the most alarming signs for the PDP is the departure of powerful party leaders who were instrumental in its return to power in 2023. Among the defectors is Hon. Latep Dabang, former Director-General of the Atiku/Mutfwang Campaign Organisation. His departure was not just symbolic but also strategic. As one insider put it, “Dabang’s exit created a vacuum in party mobilisation that is difficult to fill.”

    Another defector, Senator Istifanus Gyang, who represented Plateau North, lamented the PDP’s internal decay upon his exit. “The party has parted ways with basic democratic tenets,” Gyang said. “It lacks the leverage to promote Plateau State’s strategic interests. There is no equity, fairness, inclusivity, or good governance.”

    Bitrus Kaze, a former member of the House of Representatives, also walked away, citing persistent marginalisation. “Despite my long-standing loyalty and service, the party’s leadership continued to sideline me,” he said.

    Several other influential PDP figures who lost their re-election bids in 2023 are reportedly sitting on the fence—politically disengaged but watching closely. Names like Hon. Beni Lar, Hon. Timothy Golu, and Hon. Isaac Kwalu are still contemplating their future in the party.

    “The truth remains that if those who have already left the party and those about to leave are not convinced to return to the fold before 2027, the PDP will certainly struggle to get a second term,” said a party insider.

    The governor’s dilemma

    A key dilemma facing Governor Mutfwang is whether to concentrate on development or focus on patronage. His administration has earned applause for prioritising infrastructure and reforms over political appeasement.

    However, that very choice has alienated influential stakeholders who expected recognition and appointments in return for their loyalty during the campaign. A close aide to one of the defected lawmakers explained, “Most of the grievances stem from the governor’s refusal to fund political patronage. Instead, he’s focused on tangible development, but that’s not how politics works here.”

    Still, Mutfwang retains support from several quarters. During a recent stakeholders’ engagement in Mista-Ali village, Pengana Constituency, Bassa Local Government Area—one of the more politically vocal parts of the northern zone—party members reaffirmed their loyalty and even endorsed him for a second term.

    Sunday Chapa, the state PDP ex-officio, said, “We trust Governor Mutfwang, particularly because he resisted the pressure to abandon his people and join the APC. At the height of that pressure, the governor met with us and assured us that he would not leave the PDP.”

    APC: Rebuilding from Strength

    Despite losing the governorship in 2023, the APC is confident of staging a full comeback in 2027. With control of the National Assembly seats and a majority in the Plateau State House of Assembly, the party is retooling its campaign machinery and absorbing defectors at an unprecedented pace.

    The Plateau APC Chairman, Rufus Bature, said the party’s prospects have never been brighter.

    Read Also: Gunmen kill 14 Bokkos residents in Plateau

    “From all indications, the chance of APC staging a comeback to power in 2027 is brighter. Every day, you hear leaders of other political parties moving into the APC. This is because the APC remains the only political party trusted by the people,” he said.

    He added that the PDP’s internal collapse is working in the APC’s favour. “Remember, in 2023, the party only lost the governorship seat but won all other offices. Based on party structure, no other party can win in 2027 besides the APC.”

    A boost from Abuja

    The emergence of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda—the APC’s 2023 governorship candidate—as the National Chairman of the APC has significantly raised the party’s visibility and credibility. With access to federal resources, analysts suggest that Yilwatda is now better positioned to influence voters and build patronage networks on the Plateau.

    “Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda now occupies a strategic position. Though he is unlikely to appear on the governorship ballot in 2027, his elevation to the top of the party’s national structure grants him considerable influence over campaign strategy, candidate selection, and federal support flows,” said a political analyst based in Jos.

    That sentiment is echoed by APC insiders who claim the PDP governor is underperforming despite increased federal allocations. “With the resources available to Gov. Mutfwang, his performance is below average,” Bature said. “States with fewer resources have done better.”

    Still, the APC must tread carefully. The influx of former PDP chieftains into its fold may trigger internal battles over candidacy slots, ticket allocation, and party leadership.

    Candidate dynamics and power shifts

    With Dr. Yilwatda’s elevation to the position of APC National Chairman, the likelihood of a direct rematch with Governor Mutfwang has effectively vanished. Until last Thursday (July 24), Dr. Yilwatda was the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs. Now, his influence on the 2027 Plateau governorship race may prove even more decisive.

    As national chairman, Yilwatda will be central to the APC’s candidate selection process, campaign coordination, and federal alignment—factors that could significantly enhance the party’s chances of reclaiming the governorship.

    Analysts insist that his grasp of Plateau’s political terrain, combined with his strengthened national platform, gives him the leverage to shape the APC’s state strategy more effectively than any other figure in the party. “He doesn’t need to be on the ballot to determine the outcome,” a party insider remarked.

    Despite the APC’s growing influence and its control of federal might, it still has a mountain to climb in the Plateau contest. Though internal dissent has weakened the PDP, Governor Mutfwang retains the advantages of incumbency, including visibility, control of state structures, and a reform-focused record.

    The role of smaller parties

    Though new entrants, such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Labour Party (LP), are working to carve a niche for themselves—particularly in Jos North and parts of Mikang—neither has yet demonstrated the grassroots capacity to mount a credible challenge.

    APC Chairman Bature dismissed the idea outright: “A coalition has never worked on the Plateau. I see the ADC as an assembly of like-minded individuals who have ambition and are looking for an opportunity to be recognised as politicians. I don’t see them making much impact in 2027.”

    The PDP’s Chris Hassan countered, “One thousand political parties can contest the Plateau governorship in 2027, but no one can match the performance of Gov. Mutfwang. There is no hindrance to the victory of Gov. Mutfwang and the PDP come 2027.”

    Conclusion

    If there is one consistent theme in Plateau politics, it is that voters are driven by performance and personality, not party loyalty. In 2023, the people showed their willingness to vote for different parties at different levels. That trend is expected to continue in 2027.

    With two years to go, the APC and the PDP are neck and neck in what promises to be a defining election in Plateau State. Both have significant strengths and notable weaknesses.

    For the APC, the goal is to rebuild trust and offer a fresh candidate with the credibility of federal backing. For the PDP, the challenge is to hold together its remaining support base, reconnect with the grassroots, and bank on Mutfwang’s performance.

    Ultimately, the 2027 general election on the Plateau will not be won in Abuja or Little Rayfield—it will be won in Bokkos, Pankshin, Riyom, Qua’an Pan, Shendam, Langtang, and the urban sprawl of Jos. With Plateau’s politically literate and regionally conscious electorate, only time and visible performance across its diverse communities will tell who tips the balance.

  • PDP loyalists slam ADC defectors, vow to keep party strong in Enugu

    PDP loyalists slam ADC defectors, vow to keep party strong in Enugu

    • •Say coalition built by party destroyers

    Leaders and stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State have lashed out at party members defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing them of sowing division within the PDP before abandoning ship.

    The Concerned PDP stakeholders forum, a coalition of founding members, grassroots mobilisers, and former executives, said those now aligning with the ADC were the very individuals who destabilised the PDP and are seeking refuge after causing internal crises.

    “They want to destroy the PDP and run, but we won’t let them succeed,” said Ozo Okey Ozoani, the group’s leader and former PDP state vice chairman, while addressing the press after a strategy meeting in Enugu weekend. “These same people fueled the confusion around the National Secretary seat, and now they’re jumping to the ADC.”

    Ozoani insisted that the PDP in Enugu remains solid and unshaken despite defections and speculations surrounding Governor Peter Mbah’s rumored move to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

     “We are here to restore hope in the PDP. Enugu has never known any other party since 1998. It’s not easy to go to the wards and preach a new party to our people,” he said.

    Read Also: Correctional Service clears misleading report over dismissed officer

    The forum emphasised that the state chapter would not follow any politician blindly, even if the governor were to leave.

    “The PDP is not moving with anyone. Many of us are here to stay,” Ozoani declared.

    He also dismissed agitation by some Southeast PDP members threatening to quit the party if SKE Ude-Okoye is not made National Secretary.

    “That’s a divisive move. The current occupant of that office is from the Southeast—Senator Anyanwu from Imo. Why push him out for another Southeast candidate from Enugu?” he queried.

    Joining the conversation, a former Udi council chairman and ex-aide to Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Engr. Nicholas Obiora Ozonsi, said the party’s survival must not depend on one individual.

    “We will defend the PDP even if the governor takes a different path. Our loyalty is to the party, not personalities,” Ozonsi said, stressing the need to safeguard the PDP’s legacy and credibility.

    “If anything happens overnight, people must still find the PDP standing,” he said.

    The group said it would begin reconciliation efforts across wards and local government areas to bring back disillusioned members and keep the party united ahead of future elections.

    “We are not just loyalists,” Ozoani added. “We are guardians of the PDP in Enugu, and we’re here to remind everyone that PDP is still the party to beat.”

  • PDP loyalists slam ADC defectors, vow to keep party strong in Enugu

    PDP loyalists slam ADC defectors, vow to keep party strong in Enugu

    Leaders and stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State have lashed out at members defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing them of sowing division within the PDP before abandoning ship.

    The Concerned PDP Stakeholders Forum, a coalition of founding members, grassroots mobilisers, and former executives, alleged those aligning with the ADC were the very individuals who destabilised the PDP and are seeking refuge after causing internal crises.

    “They want to destroy the PDP and run, but we won’t let them succeed,” Ozo Okey Ozoani, the group’s leader and former PDP state vice chairman said while addressing reporters after a strategy meeting in Enugu weekend. 

    “These same people fuelled the confusion around the National Secretary seat, and now they’re jumping to the ADC.”

    Ozoani insisted that the PDP in Enugu remains solid and unshaken despite defections and speculations surrounding Governor Peter Mbah’s rumored move to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “We are here to restore hope in the PDP. Enugu has never known any other party since 1998. It’s not easy to go to the wards and preach a new party to our people,” he said.

    The forum emphasised the state chapter would not follow any politician blindly, even if the Governor were to leave. 

    “The PDP is not moving with anyone. Many of us are here to stay,” Ozoani declared.

    He also dismissed agitation by some Southeast PDP members threatening to quit the party if SKE Ude-Okoye is not made National Secretary. 

    “That’s a divisive move. The current occupant of that office is from the Southeast—Senator Anyanwu from Imo. Why push him out for another Southeast candidate from Enugu?” he queried.

    Joining the conversation, a former Udi council chairman and ex-aide to Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Engr. Nicholas Obiora Ozonsi, said the party’s survival must not depend on one individual. 

    “We will defend the PDP even if the governor takes a different path. Our loyalty is to the party, not personalities,” Ozonsi said, stressing the need to safeguard the PDP’s legacy and credibility.

    “If anything happens overnight, people must still find the PDP standing,” he said.

    The group said it will begin reconciliation efforts across wards and local government areas to bring back disillusioned members and keep the party united ahead of future elections.

    “We are not just loyalists,” Ozoani added. “We are guardians of the PDP in Enugu, and we’re here to remind everyone that PDP is still the party to beat.”

  • 2027: PDP shops for viable candidate against Tinubu

    2027: PDP shops for viable candidate against Tinubu

    • Jonathan, Saraki, Obi, Makinde under radar •Party’s ticket open to all, says Olawepo

    A flurry of consultations and horse trading is underway in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following last week’s decision of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the south.

    Some prominent members of the party are already reaching out to stakeholders to indicate their interest in the race, an investigation by The Nation has revealed.

    No fewer than six names are being speculated to be in the running. Party sources said more will join in the months ahead as the situation gets clearer.

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan tops the list of those being tipped by some interests in the PDP.

    Others are former Senate President Bukola Saraki, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, presidential candidate of Labour Party in 2023 Mr. Peter Obi, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the outgoing President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina.

    Jonathan

    Party sources identified a northern state governor as one of the key promoters of the Jonathan for president project.

    The governor had served as a minister under Jonathan and would not mind becoming the former president’s running mate. His calculation is said to be based on his belief that he himself would be in a good position to run for the presidency in 2031 if the Jonathan ticket prevails in the 2027 election.

    But sources said the project may not fly on account of Section 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which prevents anyone who has been sworn in twice as president from seeking election into the same office.

    The Section stipulates thus: “A person who was sworn in as President to complete the term for which another person was elected as president shall not be elected to such office for more than a single term.”

    Two months ago, former first lady Patience Jonathan hinted that her husband would not be in the 2027 race.

    She also openly pledged her family’s support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    Speaking during an award ceremony in Abuja, Dame Patience said: “We don’t have two Presidents. I am outspoken. If I don’t like something, I will say it. But if I like something, I die with it.

    “I believe in one President. I believe in turn by turn. When it is your turn, I will support you. When it is not your turn, step back, so that the country can move forward.”

    Saraki

    Party members rooting for Saraki believe that he needs to be compensated for standing by the party and not following his friends like the immediate past Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi to the ADC.

    Read Also: Tinubu praises Timi Dakolo’s ‘beautiful’ song at Super Falcons reception

    They are of the belief that he is popular, having held his ground against the Buhari government during his time as the Senate President.

    They also cite his very rich friends who would not mind funding him.

    But those against him wonder which part of the country he would claim to belong to: North or South?

    Their argument is where will his running mate come from if he picks the ticket? They also say that he is overrated and lacks a solid base for now because his state, Kwara, is under the control of APC.

    The adjoining state of Kogi, which his late father Dr Olusola Saraki used to control, is also firmly in the grip of the APC.

    Wike

    Party members in support of Wike are citing his immense contribution to the party over the years and his wide political network across the 36 states.

    “Wike has given so much of his time and resources to the PDP and without his critical interventions and involvement, many PDP office holders and party officials that you see today wouldn’t have found it easy to be where they are now,” a federal legislator who pleaded anonymity told The Nation.

    However, the minister himself has ruled out any interest in the contest against President Tinubu.

    He has said on several occasions that while he remains a committed member of the PDP, he will support the President’s re-election bid.

    Sources said he is also unlikely to square up with his former boss Jonathan in the event that the former President joins the race.

    Wike was Jonathan’s Minister of State for Education, and the former president was instrumental to his emergence as the governor of Rivers State.

    Obi

    Some PDP leaders are trying to lure Peter Obi back to the party in the hope that he can help save it from total collapse following the recent gale of defections by many high profile members.

    His name has come up because of his surprise performance in the last general election.

    A founding member of the party, Prof. Jerry Gana, said in a television interview on Wednesday that Obi has what it takes to defeat any contender in the northern states if he contests on the PDP platform.

    “I’m a researcher, and I research opinions. In the northern states, Peter Obi under the PDP will defeat any candidate, because our people are very fair minded,” Gana said.

    Obi was a member of the PDP until he defected to Labour Party ahead of the 2023 elections.

    He was the PDP vice presidential candidate in the 2019 election.

    Obi had popped up at the recent movement of some opposition politicians to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja, sparking speculation that he was on his way out of the LP.

    He has since denied the speculation, saying he remains a member of the Labour Party.

    Some PDP members, however, do not trust the former Anambra State governor to keep his promise to do only one term if elected.

    A source said: “It is easy to make a promise. We have seen that before.

    “The late leader of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Chief Sunday Awoniyi, once told the world how Chief Olusegun Obasanjo promised to do one term only for him to renege.

    “We can’t be taken for a ride a second time.”

    They are also not comfortable with his record of defections, first from APGA to PDP and then from PDP to LP.

    Governors elected on the platform of the party are not likely to prefer him to Makinde, if the Oyo governor decides to contest.

    There is no bond between the PDP governors and Obi.

    Makinde

    Supporters of Governor Makinde are of the view that he stands a good chance to face President Tinubu since he is from the same South West zone as the President.

    Their calculation is that he will divide votes from the zone, thus giving the party some advantage.   

    One source said: “In the Southwest, there is only one loyal PDP governor. His Osun counterpart has already indicated support for Tinubu in 2027.

    “Discussions are on, and if the ticket is zoned to the South or micro-zoned to the Southwest, the Oyo governor will be a major contender.”

    But another source, who is a former member of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), said: “I don’t have evidence that Seyi (Makinde) has opened discussion with Southwest stakeholders on any ambition.

    “People are speculating his name as they are speculating the names of Obi and even Jonathan (former President Goodluck).

    “He is hosting the convention in Ibadan. But it has nothing to do with any presidential ambition.”

    He added: “One thing that may happen is that PDP would uphold zoning, and if that is done, aspirants from the Southeast, South-south and Southwest would be eligible. Then, the matter would be decided at a later presidential convention.”

    The Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State governor, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said Makinde’s preoccupation for now is not a presidential aspiration, but the improvement of the lives of the people.

    He said: The governor’s focus now is delivering the dividends of democracy to the greater number of the people of Oyo State. He is not considering running for president. He has not declared any ambition.

    “His focus is satisfying the people of Oyo State and surpassing their expectation. He is focusing on the core assignment, which is impacting the lives of the people.”

    In April, the governor, while speaking on the state of the nation, said he was competent and capable to lead the country as president.

    Makinde said on Channels Television’s programme, Politics Today, that he had accomplished more than just serving as the governor of Oyo State.

    His words: “I don’t have any doubt that I have the capacity to occupy the highest office in this land, and I have what it takes.

    “But is it what I want to do right now? Is it what Nigerians are asking for? Is it what my party will say we should do? I don’t know. We still have a long time to go.

    “Where we are right now is, you know, we must fix our party. You must have a platform for you to even aspire to be anything.”

    Makinde said no one would dictate his agenda, adding that he would not engage in what he described as gimmick-driven politics.

    The governor said: “Right now, I am focusing on what people have given to me, the task ahead of us, and so I’m not distracted, and I will not play stunt politics.

    “I will not do things because, well, it feels right in some people’s ears. No, we will stay focused to ensure that we bring dividends of democracy to our people.”

    Makinde said he would not pursue any political ambition without proper preparation and a sense of accountability.

    He added: “One thing you should expect from Seyi Makinde is that he will never come out to say, look, I want to do this, do X, Y, Z without preparation and without being held accountable for whatever it is that I say I want to do.

    “If my political journey ends right here, I am also very happy. When I joined politics in 2007, I wanted to go to the Senate. I wanted to be a senator.

    “But now, not only have I achieved more than that by being the governor of my state, I have also cherished the opportunity that people gave to me to make my own little difference.”

    Adesina

    Dr. Adesina who is due to relinquish the AfDB presidency to his successor next month is essentially a technocrat.

    He had served as Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development under President Jonathan.

    He said recently that he was willing to serve the country in any capacity; a statement some people have interpreted to mean that he was offering himself for the presidency.

    A PDP national officer contacted yesterday said the party’s focus for now was getting rescued from the current challenges it is facing.

    “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” the official, who asked not to be named, said.

    “We are more concerned about putting the party on a sound footing ahead of the 2027 elections.

    “We want Nigerians to know that we remain a formidable party, determined to put forward a strong presidential candidate who is capable of restoring Nigeria’s glory.

    Party’s ticket open to all, says Olawepo

    The zoning of the PDP presidential ticket to the south has not gone down well with some sections in the party.

    A group, Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement, claimed yesterday that no such decision was “reached by any constitutionally recognised organ of the PDP”

    The group is mobilising for former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim.

    Its National Coordinator, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, said in a statement that even if informal discussions occurred, “they do not carry the force of party or constitutional authority, and could amount to a breach of the law if enforced.”

    He faulted Prof. Gana’s statement that PDP chairmen from the Northern states unanimously resolved to zone the party’s presidential ticket to the South

     “We have it on good authority that no such consultation held between the Northern Chairmen and the Professor, ” Hamzat said.

    Hamzat said that Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement cuts across PDP, APC, Labour party, active young and vibrant Nigerians who want to see a new Nigeria that works for all and not special interests.

    He therefore urged the party leaders to prioritise unity, fairness and legality as the PDP prepares for its national convention in Oyo State later this year.

    According to him, the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Ambassador Umar Damagun has worked tirelessly to foster inclusion and cohesion within the party and should be encouraged, not distracted by unverifiable claims or divisive rhetoric.

    “The propagation of sectional narratives, no matter how well intentioned, could undermine the NWC’s efforts to unite the party and may reverse the gains recorded so far,” Hamzat cautioned.

    “Only national agenda, devoid of regional and religious sentiment could position PDP as the beneficiary of the new wave of national consciousness ahead of 2027”.

    He cited historical precedents to reinforce his position, noting that in the 1999 PDP primaries held in Jos, prominent Northern politicians such as Alhaji Abubakar Rimi contested freely alongside Southern contenders like Chief Alex Ekwueme and eventual winner, General Olusegun Obasanjo.

    Similarly, in 2003, Rimi and Chief Barnabas Gemade again from the North contested for the party’s presidential ticket.

    In more recent memory, the 2022 All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primaries featured aspirants from both North and South, such as Senate President Ahmad Lawan and Governor Yahaya Bello from the North, and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the South, who eventually emerged as the party’s candidate and went on to win the presidency.

    Hamzat cited Section 42(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which prohibits discrimination based on place of origin, ethnicity or political affiliation.

    “A citizen of Nigeria of a particular community, ethnic group, place of origin… shall not, by reason only that he is such a person… be subjected either expressly by, or in the practical application of, any law… to disabilities or restrictions to which citizens of Nigeria of other communities… are not made subject.”

    Hamzat argued that any internal party arrangement, like zoning, which effectively bars qualified Nigerians from contesting for the presidency solely because of their region, would violate the spirit and letter of this constitutional provision.

    “Zoning may serve as a gentleman’s agreement for balancing interests, but it must never become a legal or moral tool of exclusion. The Constitution remains supreme,” he stated.

    He appealed to party stakeholders, including Professor Gana, to support the unifying and progressive efforts of the NWC as the PDP positions itself to reclaim national relevance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • 2027: PDP lacks direction in Bauchi, says APC chieftain

    2027: PDP lacks direction in Bauchi, says APC chieftain

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State, Comrade Sabo Muhammad, has criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing it of lacking direction and a credible candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Speaking at a reception organised in his honour by the Shehu Buba Vanguard, Muhammad dismissed the perceived strength of the PDP, asserting that the APC is strategically positioned to reclaim power in the state.

    “The PDP lacks direction in terms of having a credible candidate that can match ours,” he said, adding that the APC already has a widely accepted and politically experienced contender.

    Muhammad, recently appointed as a new media aide to Senator Shehu Buba, representing Bauchi South, revealed that the APC has developed a comprehensive media strategy to promote its candidate and unify the party’s campaign messaging.

    Read Also: Bauchi woos Southeast investors as Gov declares State “haven of peace”

    He emphasised the need for internal unity within the APC and urged members to cooperate to achieve their common goal of electoral victory in 2027.

    Also speaking at the event, the Director General of the Shehu Buba Vanguard, Ishaq Dabo, said the reception was held to celebrate Muhammad’s appointment and to reaffirm support for Senator Shehu Buba’s anticipated governorship bid.

    Dabo praised Senator Buba’s track record, noting his contributions to employment generation, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development, including the construction of a tiled road—an unprecedented project in Bauchi State.

    He described Buba as a “sellable candidate” whose legacy projects and performance make him the ideal choice to lead the state.

  • JUST IN: PDP suffers major blow in Ondo as Rep Akingbaso, supporters defect to APC

    JUST IN: PDP suffers major blow in Ondo as Rep Akingbaso, supporters defect to APC

    …President Tinubu’s economic reforms attract me to APC, says Hon. Akingbaso

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State suffered another setback on Thursday as scores of its members, led by Hon. Festus Akingbaso, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during a political rally in Idanre.

    Despite a downpour, the defectors turned out in large numbers to formalize their switch, receiving a warm welcome from the APC leadership.

    Hon. Akingbaso, who represents Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, announced his defection amid cheers from supporters and party stalwarts.

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, received the defectors and applauded Akingbaso’s decision to join forces with the APC. He described the move as a major boost to the party’s strength in the state.

    Aiyedatiwa also praised the people of Idanre and Ifedore for having a dedicated representative and assured them of continued development under the APC.

    “I want to congratulate our people in Idanre and Ifedore for having a worthy son, who has been representing you well at the national assembly. 

    “Hon. Akingbaso has witnessed all that the APC is doing in Ondo state and at the federal level. We are happy to receive him and members of the PDP,” Aiyedatiwa said. 

    The governor also expressed satisfaction at the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s led government, saying his ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’, which translates the economic blueprints of the APC government has yielding results. 

    Chairman of the APC in the state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin said that the defection of Hon Akingbaso from the opposition PDP to the APC was a welcome development. 

    Adetimehin, who handed over the flag of the APC to the federal lawmaker, said Idanre and Ifedore will henceforth record 100 percent votes for the ruling party with the defection of the PDP members led by Hon. Akingbaso. 

    Read Also: 2027: Kano PDP rejects ADC, coalition

    “The federal constituency used to be divided for APC and PDP but with the defection of Hon. Akingbaso to our party, Idanre/Ifedore will henceforth record 100 percent votes for the APC,” he added. 

    He therefore asked the people to support President Tinubu for his re-election bid, saying the incumbent is unbeatable in the upcoming 2027 general elections 

    Remarking, Akingbaso thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for providing purposeful leadership and prioritising the welfare of the people of the state. 

    He explained that he took the decision to join the APC to support Aiyedatiwa in his quest to bring governance closer to the grassroots and propagate the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027. 

    “It is important that I bring my supporters to work with the Governor in Ondo for the overall success of the party.

    “As a member of the national assembly for two years, I have witnessed the giant strides of President Tinubu at the top level,” he added. 

    A former chief of staff to the erstwhile Governor of the state, Olusegun Mimiko, Dr. Kola Ademujimi promised that Idanre/Ifedore will support Governor Aiyedatiwa to enable President Tinubu to return for another term. 

    Adetimehin also expressed satisfaction at the reforms of President Tinubu and passed a vote of confidence on his APC led administration. 

    In March, Hon. Akingbaso, the deputy governorship candidate of the PDP in the November 16, 2024 election, announced his defection from the opposition party to the APC. 

    Akingbaso’s defection letter was read by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, at the plenary session of the National Assembly

    He cited an intractable crisis in his former party [PDP] as a reason for his defection.

    Photos: 

    Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa represented by his Deputy, Olayide Adelami receiving the decampees led by Hon Akingbaso in Idanre on Thursday.

  • 2027: Kano PDP rejects ADC, coalition

    2027: Kano PDP rejects ADC, coalition

    The Kano State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party on Thursday said it was not joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for any political scheming ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Addressing a press conference at Gidauniya, Kano city, the state PDP chairman, Yusuf Ado Kibiya, told newsmen that the party is also not going to affiliate with any movement or coalition, apart from the umbrella party.

    “We categorically distance the Kano State chapter from the breakaway members who have formed a coalition under the African Democratic Party.

    “This coalition does not represent the interests of the PDP, and we urge our members to remain focused on our party’s objectives

    “We are resolute; there is no compromise; and we are not backing any candidate except those sponsored by the PDP,” the chairman said.

    Kibiya, who was accompanied by his entire Exco members and party supporters from the 44 local government areas of the state, disclosed that the PDP in Kano has successfully conducted elections at the ward, local, and state levels.

    “This achievement (successful election) demonstrates our organisational strength and commitment to democratic processes.

    Read Also: Why we raided Kano drug market, by NAFDAC

    He noted that the election marks a significant step in ensuring that the leadership is in place and ready to serve the party and its members effectively.

    According to Kabiya, the Kano PDP has completed the mobilisation and repositioning of party members, who he said were actively engaged and aligned with the party’s goals.

    “This effort is crucial for the strengthening of our grassroots support and enhancement of our operational effectiveness,” he noted.

    He assured the national executives of absolute loyalty in all matters concerning the conduct of party businesses, adding, “Our commitment to the party remains unwavering, and we stand ready to support the party’s initiatives and directives.”

    He also assured all PDP members that the entire membership of the Kano PDP was united as one solid base.

    “We are resolute in our commitment to providing quality leadership. Our focus will be on delivering effective governance and addressing the needs of our constituents,” he added.