The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared its primary focus on unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, as it works to resolve internal challenges and strengthen party cohesion.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, emphasized that the party has already begun its mission to reclaim power, starting with its recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and preparations for the November 15 National Elective Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Ologunagba criticized the APC for failing to improve the lives of Nigerians, contrasting its governance with what he described as the “golden years of democracy” under PDP’s 16-year rule.
“Nigerians want a return to that era. PDP is the next natural alternative to the APC. We are ready for our national convention. The party remains the rallying point for Nigerians. We are coming out stronger,” he said.
To achieve its goal, the PDP has vowed to enforce party loyalty and discipline among its members, warning that anti-party activities will no longer be tolerated.
Ologunagba stressed that errant members would face consequences such as suspension, reprimanding, or expulsion.
“We demand 100% loyalty from our members. That’s our position today,” he said.
While responding to questions about prominent members like Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who has been accused of acting independently of party directives, Ologunagba insisted that no individual is above the party.
He clarified that the PDP had moved past disputes, such as the South-South Zonal Congress issue raised by Wike, and reaffirmed that the caretaker committee led by Emma Ogidi would remain until a new congress is held.
“The PDP will not take conditions from anybody; we are guided by our rules,” he added.
The PDP also addressed brewing tensions within its Imo State chapter, where 83 members have gone to court over alleged delegate exclusion during the state congress. Ologunagba assured that the matter would be investigated thoroughly to ensure appropriate responses.
On speculation about former President Goodluck Jonathan and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi potentially rejoining the PDP to contest its 2027 presidential ticket, Ologunagba maintained that the party remains open to their return but would not actively court anyone to pick its ticket.
He noted that the PDP already boasts a pool of highly qualified governors, including Bala Mohammed (Bauchi State), Seyi Makinde (Oyo State), Agbu Kefas (Taraba State), and Diri Douye (Bayelsa State), capable of leading the country.
“This party has many exceedingly qualified, performing governors who can become president. Ask Jonathan or Obi about their ambitions. It’s not for me to speculate,” he remarked.
With the upcoming convention and plans to enforce discipline, the PDP is positioning itself as a stronger and more united opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ologunagba concluded by reiterating the party’s readiness to restore hope to Nigerians and reclaim its legacy as the “natural alternative” to the APC.
