Former Jigawa State Governor and a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sule Lamido, has issued a stark warning that the party might have no choice but to form alliances if current efforts to mend its deep internal divisions prove unsuccessful.
High-Stakes Reconciliation Efforts
Lamido sounded the alarm during a meeting with PDP stakeholders and leaders from Jigawa State at his office in Kano. He stressed the critical and urgent need for reconciliation to prevent the party from sinking further into decline. The party chieftain reminded those present that he had previously asked members to be patient until December 9, a deadline linked to deciding the fate of the party's acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum.
He explained that this ultimatum was part of broader, high-level consultations designed to bring stability back to the PDP. Lamido disclosed that he has personally engaged in talks with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Senate President Bukola Saraki to craft strategies. These plans involve reaching out to PDP governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to spearhead reconciliation. Some of these crucial meetings were held at Saraki's residence.
"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.
The Looming Threat of Alliances
Lamido delivered a clear message about the potential consequence of failed unity talks. He warned that if reconciliation efforts collapse, the party will be compelled to explore alliances, not coalitions – a distinction he emphasized. He believes such a move could dramatically alter Nigeria's political scene.
"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," he added.
He expressed deep concern over the party's dwindling influence, particularly in Kano State, where it managed to secure only about 15,000 votes in the last general elections. Lamido also criticized the defection of the PDP's former vice-presidential candidate to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), labeling it a significant setback.
According to him, internal squabbles within the PDP have primarily benefited the APC. He alleged that political arrangements in the South-West have favored the ruling party due to tribal sentiments.
A Party in Limbo
Speaking earlier, the Jigawa State PDP Chairman, Dr. Babandi Ibrahim, stated that the meeting was a continuation of earlier sessions focused on resolving the party's prolonged leadership crisis.
"This meeting is a follow-up to our earlier sittings, especially regarding resolutions submitted by stakeholders on the fate of the party," Babandi said.
He openly admitted that the party is currently in a state of uncertainty, noting that Lamido had earlier appealed for patience while attempts were made to break the leadership deadlock.
"You asked us to come and we are here. As far as we are concerned, the party is in limbo. Up till this moment, Damagum and Anyanwu remain on the INEC platform as the recognised leaders of the party. We are here today before you, Sir," he concluded.
