Despite a recent wave of defections and internal turbulence, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Abubakar Baraje, remains optimistic about the party’s prospects in the 2027 general elections.
Appearing on The Morning Show on Arise TV on Wednesday, Baraje dismissed concerns that the defections, including that of the Delta State Governor, have weakened the PDP’s position as the main opposition.
“Whether there are defections or not, the PDP remains a formidable opposition party,” he said. “We have moved past the Delta Governor’s defection. The ruling party may have its opinions, but the PDP is focused and far from complacent.”
Baraje acknowledged the internal shocks caused by recent developments but maintained that the party is undergoing reorganization to address critical issues such as discipline and leadership. He noted that the National Working Committee will soon convene to implement key reforms.
On potential political alliances ahead of 2027, Baraje advised caution, emphasizing the need for ideological depth beyond a shared desire to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Some believe a coalition is the only way to defeat the APC, but such efforts lack a clear ideological foundation. While I may not be directly involved in these talks, it’s important to recognize that multiple strategies can be effective in confronting the ruling party,” he stated.
Media entrepreneur and PDP chieftain, Dele Momodu, who also featured on the programme, echoed Baraje’s concerns. He warned that internal divisions could derail the party’s ambitions and stressed the need for strategic alignment, particularly around the choice of a presidential candidate.
“President Tinubu can only be effectively challenged by a strong northern candidate,” Momodu argued. “A southern contender is unlikely to succeed against Tinubu in 2027. The PDP—and any potential coalition—must consider the realities of Nigeria’s political dynamics.”
Describing the current political environment as “an optical illusion,” Momodu lamented the erosion of ideology in Nigerian politics, suggesting that opportunism now outweighs genuine public service.
“The PDP is split—some members are pushing for coalitions, while others remain firmly in the party. This confusion undermines progress. I recently spoke with our Bauchi governor, who believes in revitalizing the PDP from within, not abandoning it. But if the party refuses to evolve, its collapse might become inevitable,” he warned.
Momodu also dismissed speculation about former Vice President Atiku Abubakar defecting to the APC.
“That claim is far-fetched. The APC is struggling with its own internal issues and lacks the cohesion to address the nation’s critical problems,” he said.
Reflecting on the mood in the South following the Delta Governor’s defection, Momodu questioned the real gains of aligning with the ruling party.
“People celebrated their alignment with the so-called mainstream, but what benefits have they truly received? For over 20 years, PDP leaders have tried to connect with the grassroots, but the results remain elusive—like trying to link a village to the national grid with no electricity to show for it,” he concluded.
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