Former Senate President and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Reconciliation Committee, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has assured Nigerians that the party will bounce back and emerge as a formidable opposition force by 2027.
Speaking with journalists on Wednesday during a visit to Ajikobi Ward in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State, Saraki acknowledged the current defections from the PDP but emphasized that the party is also attracting new members from other political parties.
“Yes, some members may still defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but I’m equally confident that new members will continue to join the PDP,” he said, shortly after revalidating his membership with the party.
Saraki expressed optimism about the PDP’s prospects, both nationally and in Kwara State. “We started early, and we still have two years. We’ll use this time to rebuild and identify those committed to the party’s revival,” he noted.
He highlighted ongoing efforts at the national level, including the successful hosting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and plans for another by the end of the month. “Between now and then, we will intensify grassroots engagements,” Saraki said.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient, assuring that efforts are being made to restore the party’s strength and unity. “We are committed to rescuing the PDP and revitalizing Nigeria’s democracy. A healthy democracy needs a vibrant opposition, and we are prepared to make the necessary sacrifices.”
On the PDP’s chances in Kwara, Saraki pointed to growing public dissatisfaction with the current state administration. “There’s a surge of enthusiasm at the grassroots. People are registering, new members are joining, and our old members are re-engaged. The insecurity, unemployment, and lack of visible governance have left people disillusioned. This gives us hope for 2027.”
He concluded by stressing the importance of resolving leadership challenges at the national level to reinforce grassroots momentum. “Once we achieve stability at the top, everything else will fall into place. People still believe in the PDP.”