By: Daure David
Former Senate President and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has called for calm and renewed commitment among party members following the recent wave of defections by prominent PDP leaders in Delta State, including the state governor.
In a statement released on Thursday, Saraki expressed confidence in the party’s ability to weather the storm and emerge stronger, urging members not to be demoralized by the developments. He described the departure of high-ranking figures as “a mere challenge” that should serve as a catalyst for introspection and rebuilding within the party.
“There is no cause for alarm,” Saraki said. “Let those who want to leave go, and let those who remain come together to reposition the party and refocus it as a viable opposition with a credible alternative for Nigerians.”
Saraki emphasized the critical role of the opposition in sustaining democracy, warning against the dangers of a one-party state in a diverse nation like Nigeria. “A one-party state, as being disingenuously designed by some, will not augur well for a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society such as ours,” he stated.
The former Senate President, who has remained largely silent amid recent internal party disputes, noted that the defections vindicated his earlier position on the lack of sincerity among some so-called opposition leaders. He called for a purge of political hypocrisy and a consolidation of loyal, committed members.
“It is better to have a few dedicated and sincere party members than a crowd of double agents,” Saraki said. “We must build and strengthen our institutions, not individuals.”
While describing the defection of the PDP presidential running mate in the 2023 elections as “shocking” and “unprecedented,” Saraki insisted that such developments, though regrettable, do not signal the end for the PDP. Instead, he called on party members—especially the youth and women’s wings—to seize the moment to mobilize and re-strategize.
He also discouraged blaming the ruling party for PDP’s internal issues, calling such an approach “lazy politics.” According to him, the focus should be on seizing the political moment and improving internal party cohesion.
“We still have about two years before the next election. That is a long time in politics,” he noted. “The PDP is undergoing a rebirth. We must stay focused, ignore distractions, and work towards a brighter tomorrow.”
Saraki assured members that the party’s leadership organs would soon meet and communicate a clear, strategic response to recent events. He reiterated his unwavering belief in the PDP’s future prospects, urging members to remain resolute and hopeful.
“The future is bright. This is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter for the PDP,” Saraki concluded.
