Ilorin, Nigeria – Former Senate President and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Reconciliation Committee, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has expressed confidence in the party’s ability to bounce back ahead of the 2027 general elections, assuring Nigerians that the PDP remains the most viable opposition force in the country.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday during a visit to his Ajikobi Ward in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State, Saraki emphasized that while defections from the PDP continue, there has also been a steady inflow of new members from other political parties.
“Yes, some members of the party might still defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but I’m also confident that politicians from other parties will join the PDP. It’s a process. What matters is our resolve to rebuild and reclaim our space,” Saraki said shortly after revalidating his PDP membership.
Saraki, a former governor of Kwara State, described the PDP as the only credible opposition platform left in Nigeria, despite internal challenges. He noted that efforts were already underway to resolve internal rifts and reposition the party ahead of the next election cycle.
“We were able to successfully hold our National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, and another is scheduled for the end of this month. Between now and then, a lot of groundwork is being done to unify the party and chart a clear path forward,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of unity and early mobilization, Saraki said the reconciliation committee has started outreach efforts to mend fractured relationships within the party and energize its grassroots base.
“Luckily for us, we started early. With two years ahead of us, we have time to identify those truly committed to the PDP cause. Some might still leave, but others are joining, and we are already seeing an encouraging response at the state level,” he said.
On the PDP’s prospects in Kwara State, Saraki said the groundswell of public dissatisfaction with the current administration’s handling of issues such as insecurity, unemployment, and lack of governance has made the electorate more receptive to the PDP.
“We are encouraged by the enthusiasm among the people. Many are coming out to register with the PDP. There’s renewed interest, especially from the grassroots. That tells us people are still in love with our party,” he said.
He further stressed the critical role of a strong opposition in any democracy. “We are all committed to a thriving democracy, and that cannot exist without a vibrant opposition. The PDP is making sacrifices for the national interest, and we are confident in the path we are taking.”
Saraki concluded by thanking party members for their patience and reaffirmed the leadership’s dedication to restoring the PDP’s strength both at the national and state levels.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, all eyes will be on how effectively the PDP can translate its internal reorganization into a formidable political resurgence.