Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has described it as “shameful” if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fails to feature on the ballot in the 2027 general elections due to internal conflicts.
Saraki spoke on Sunday during the 2026 PDP National Convention held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, expressing concern over the consequences of lingering party disputes.
Reflecting on the party’s journey to the convention, Saraki admitted it had been an emotional and challenging process.
“For me, it’s been a long journey to reach this point. Personally, I have been involved in reconciliation efforts, facing criticism along the way.
”But the goal has always been clear: to ensure that those wishing to contest in 2027 can do so under the PDP platform,” he said.
He noted that missing the opportunity to contest on the PDP platform would amount to an avoidable “own goal” for the party.
“It would be a shame if, by one way or another, we are not on the ballot. That has been the driving force for people like me,” Saraki added.
The former Senate president praised the turnout at the convention and the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying it reinforced confidence in the party’s credibility.
“Seeing the attendance and INEC here made me grateful. This shows PDP has deep roots across the country.
”People are excited because now aspirants have a legitimate platform. That is what truly matters,” he remarked.
On party unity and the absence of some leaders, Saraki stressed that reconciliation is an ongoing process.
“The reconciliation process does not end here. Some members wanted to see INEC’s validation before joining.
”There will be continuous engagement and conversations after the convention. We want everyone who genuinely wants to contest under PDP to be part of this journey,” he said.
Saraki emphasised the importance of prioritising grassroots participation.
“What matters is the young man in Katsina, the young woman in Zamfara or Kaduna, who wants to contest for the House of Assembly or House of Representatives.
”They need a platform. PDP can provide that. The focus should not be on leaders’ differences, but on giving opportunities to those aspiring to serve,” he said.
Since the 2023 elections, the PDP has been plagued by internal crises, including leadership disputes, factional splits, and defections of governors and lawmakers to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Saraki urged party members to focus on the 2027 elections and ensure the party remains a viable political platform.
“This is our chance to revive PDP’s relevance. We may not get another opportunity like this.
”Leaders should put aside their disagreements and embrace the platform we now have for the 2027 elections,” he said.
