In a significant revelation concerning the future of Nigeria's main opposition party, former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has outlined the Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) contingency plan should internal peace efforts collapse. Lamido stated that the party would be compelled to seek political alliances ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections if reconciliation among its feuding factions proves unsuccessful.
The Urgent Call for Internal Peace
Speaking at his office in Kano, Lamido, a founding member of the PDP, received stakeholders and leaders from the Jigawa State chapter of the party. He stressed the critical and urgent need for reconciliation to halt the party's continued decline. Lamido emphasised that the PDP remains the premier political platform in Nigeria, urging members to subdue their personal egos to prevent its destruction.
"We have consulted all of them and asked for cooperation. We are going to sit again. Don't worry, you are going to vote. There is still no party like the PDP. We should not allow our personal ego to destroy it," Lamido told the gathering, as reported by Daily Trust.
Alliance, Not Coalition: The 2027 Fallback Plan
Lamido drew a clear distinction between an alliance and a coalition, specifying the PDP's potential path. He warned that if reconciliation talks ultimately fail, the party would have no other choice but to explore forming alliances. He described this move as "inevitable" and one that could dramatically reshape the nation's political landscape.
"If reconciliation fails, alliances not coalition will become inevitable. You know there is a difference between alliance and coalition. If you want to make a name in Nigeria, you should join the PDP," Lamido asserted, making a bold pitch for the party's enduring relevance.
Criticism of Defections and Tribal Sentiments
The former governor did not hold back in criticising recent high-profile defections from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He specifically mentioned the departure of the party's 2023 vice-presidential candidate, former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, labelling it a major setback for the opposition.
Lamido lamented that the PDP's internal squabbles and rivalry have primarily benefited the APC. He further alleged that political realignments, particularly in Nigeria's South-West region, have tilted in favour of the ruling party due to the influence of tribal sentiments. This, he suggested, has compounded the challenges facing the PDP as it seeks to regroup and challenge for power in 2027.
The former governor's comments highlight the deep-seated issues within the PDP as it navigates a post-election period. With the 2027 elections already on the horizon, the party's ability to reconcile its warring factions or successfully negotiate external alliances will be pivotal in determining its role in Nigeria's future political dynamics.
