Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reaffirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains a resilient and fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s democracy, despite defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Jonathan made the remarks while receiving members of the PDP National Working Committee, led by National Chairman Dr. Kabiru Turaki, SAN, during a consultative meeting in Abuja focused on reconciliation and strategic repositioning ahead of the 2027 general election.
Jonathan described PDP as more than a political platform, calling it a national institution with historical resilience and institutional strength capable of overcoming internal challenges. He credited the party for his political career, which included serving as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice President, and President, and expressed continued commitment to contributing to its development.
Turaki and other NWC members briefed Jonathan on the party’s current state, challenges, and prospects, and outlined a “Rebirth Agenda” aimed at uniting aggrieved members and strengthening the party ahead of upcoming elections in Ekiti, Osun, and the 2027 general polls. Turaki highlighted ongoing legal battles and concerns with access to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal for candidate registration, but Jonathan expressed confidence in PDP as the viable party for Nigerians.
The PDP also criticized APC over the handling of Rivers State politics, particularly the role of former PDP member and Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong said APC had no moral standing to complain, as Wike had been expelled from PDP, and accused the ruling party of engaging him for political advantage, only to face consequences from their own actions. Ememobong emphasized that PDP should not be drawn into the dispute, noting that the conduct previously applauded by APC was now being criticized after the situation became inconvenient.
