Former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki has projected optimism for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), assuring that its two major factions are on the verge of reuniting into a single, formidable entity.
Birthday Summit Becomes Platform for Unity Assurance
Saraki, who previously chaired the PDP's Reconciliation Committee, made this significant declaration on Friday, 19 December 2025. He spoke at a youth summit in Ilorin, Kwara State, an event organised by the party to commemorate his 63rd birthday.
The gathering was attended by a crowd predominantly made up of young people, alongside key party figures. Notable among them were the national factional chairman, Kawu Baraje, and a representative of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, his Senior Special Assistant Bamikole Omishore.
Direct Talks with INEC Underway
In his address, Saraki revealed that concrete steps are already in motion to heal the party's divisions. He pointed to his own actions during the event as evidence of the ongoing high-level discussions.
"You must have seen that I was on the phone at that time. Just to let you know what is going on. As I’m talking with you, the two factions of the PDP are meeting with INEC," Saraki told the audience.
He emphasized that this engagement with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is a clear signal that progress is being made. "That’s to tell you that things are beginning to happen," he added, expressing confidence that the future is very bright for the PDP.
A Pledge for a Unified Future
Using his birthday as a symbolic moment, Saraki called for a collective pledge to work for the party's success. He made a point of declaring his neutrality in internal party contests, a move likely aimed at fostering trust among all aspirants.
"I’ve told you that I don’t have any candidates for any position. Go and deliver those who will represent us," he stated, urging members to focus on bringing in capable leaders to build a better Kwara and Nigeria.
His core message was a firm timeline for unity: "I assure you that very soon, in a few months to come, we shall become one indivisible party; by then, we will have aligned the factions into one." He reiterated that while internal problems are normal for any political party, the PDP is committed to resolving all grievances promptly.
Advice to Youths and a Warning Against Propaganda
Saraki acknowledged the crucial role of both the party's elders and its youth wing. He thanked the elders for their steadfastness but stressed that it is now the time for the youth, who must be nurtured and guided.
However, he issued a strong caution against internal propaganda, directly addressing PDP youth. "Many people have been sending out propaganda. Be assured that PDP is still strong, vibrant and ready to deliver," Saraki said.
He concluded with a rallying cry of solidarity, dismissing any notions of defection: "We’re going nowhere; we are not leaving the PDP, and you people are going nowhere. You’re with me, I’m with you. Wherever I am, we’re going together. PDP is going to make a better Nigeria."
