PDP’ll bounce back before 2027, says Saraki

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party will bounce back and provide a formidable opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Saraki, who chairs the PDP Reconciliation Committee, stated this while speaking with journalists on Wednesday in Ilorin, Kwara State. He acknowledged ongoing defections from the party but noted that new members were also joining from other political platforms.

Responding to questions during a visit to Ajikobi Ward in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Saraki said, “Some members of the party might still defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress, but I’m also confident that politicians from other parties will join the PDP.”

The former Kwara State governor, who spoke shortly after revalidating his PDP membership in his ward, expressed optimism about the party’s prospects both nationally and in the state by 2027.

He said, “The only viable opposition party is the PDP. Yes, there are challenges, and I have taken it upon myself to do my best. I’m encouraged by the responses from our colleagues who are willing to reconcile and settle our differences.

“We successfully held our NEC meeting and have another scheduled before the end of this month. Between now and then, we’ll engage in a lot of legwork.

“Luckily, we started early. We have two more years to work. This gives us time to identify those willing to stay and rebuild the party. Some may still leave, but others will surely join.”

Saraki added that he welcomed new members into the party during his visit to the state. He stressed that with stability at the national level, the PDP would be better positioned to chart a new course.

“Once there’s stability at the top, I’m sure we’ll begin to see a better future for the PDP. I thank Nigerians for their patience with our leaders.

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“I want to use this opportunity to reassure our members across the country that we are doing our best to rescue the party. We’re confident that we will overcome our challenges. We’re committed to this because we believe in Nigeria’s democracy. A fledgling democracy requires a vibrant opposition, and we’re prepared to make the personal and collective sacrifices necessary in the national interest,” he said.

On the PDP’s ability to regain power in Kwara State, Saraki said he was encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by party members and the public.

“People are coming out to register with the party. They are tired of the current state of affairs in the state. New members are joining, and our old members are also very active. The level of interest we’re seeing is impressive.

“People are reacting to what they’re going through—insecurity, unemployment, hunger, and lack of governance. That’s why we’re confident that the PDP will bounce back in 2027,” he stated.

He added, “People want to be associated with the PDP. They’re no longer shy to publicly identify with the party. That tells us the grassroots still believes in us.

“Although we have our challenges at the national level, we are confident that once issues at the top are resolved, everything else will fall into place,” Saraki assured.