… say party doesn’t depend on governors’ funds
Senators elected on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have pushed back against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent call for a coalition ahead of the 2027 General elections, insisting that only political parties, not individuals, can initiate such efforts.
Sixteen PDP Senators led by Abba Moro, Senate Minority Leader, addressed a press conference at the National Assembly on Tuesday, where they dismissed concerns that “the party is in crisis”, asserting that the “PDP remains intact and poised for a resurgence.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, this press conference is by Senators of the PDP, following a series of meetings and due consideration of issues surrounding our great party,” Moro said.
Their comments follow Atiku’s suggestion of a political alliance with the Labour Party’s Peter Obi to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election cycle.
But the lawmakers distanced the party from Atiku’s remarks, describing them as personal and not reflective of the PDP’s collective position.
“Creating harmony for a coalition should be driven by political parties, not individuals”, the Caucus stated, emphasising that while they are open to coalition talks, such engagements must originate from party structures.
As the PDP’s Presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Atiku had floated the idea of working with Obi again ahead of 2027, sparking a fresh wave of political debate.
However, the PDP Senators said their focus remains on party rebuilding and unity.
“The PDP’s umbrella is big enough to accommodate all persons desirous of coalition,” the lawmakers said. “And if and when it becomes necessary, the PDP will lead such efforts.”
Moro said, “For the avoidance of doubt, this press conference is by Senators of the PDP, following a series of meetings and due consideration of issues surrounding our great party.”
“Synthesizing ideas and creating harmony for a coalition should be driven by political parties, not individuals,” the Caucus noted.
Reaffirming their loyalty to the party, the Senators said reconciliation processes are ongoing, including zonal Congresses and a National Convention that will usher in new leadership.
They expressed confidence in the Committee led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki to resolve internal disputes.
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“We are optimistic that Senator Saraki, given his pedigree as a former Senate President and Governor, will reposition the PDP,” Moro said.
“We also have tested and trusted hands like former governors Seriake Dickson and Dankwambo on the Committee”, he noted.
The lawmakers warned against celebrating the challenges faced by opposition parties, arguing that the weakening of multiple parties risks turning Nigeria into a one-party State, something they say would harm the country’s democracy.
“The beauty of democracy lies in the existence of robust opposition to check the ruling party and ensure good governance.
“The PDP is alive, competitive, and remains a viable alternative for Nigerians”, Moro said on behalf of the PDP Senators.
Responding to claims that the party relies heavily on funding from Governors, the Senators clarified that the PDP is sustained by dues from committed members.
“I pay my dues, and my colleagues here pay their dues,” said Moro. “If it becomes necessary to raise those dues, we will. But we are not depending on any governor to run the party.”
Despite recent defections, the lawmakers expressed optimism about the party’s future, pointing to support from grassroots members across the country.
“You can hear the reaffirmation from party faithful in Kano and Delta States.
“The ordinary party member values the PDP and remains committed”, he added.
The Caucus called on party members nationwide to remain steadfast as the PDP undertakes internal reforms, expressing confidence that the party will be “as competitive as ever” by 2026.
