…Allege external suppression by APC to stifle opposition
Prominent figures within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have called on Nigerians to support the formation of a broad-based political alliance aimed at removing the All Progressives Congress (APC) from power in the 2027 general elections.
The resolution emerged from a strategic meeting of Concerned PDP Leaders held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
The high-level gathering was chaired by former Senate President David Mark and featured influential party figures, including former PDP National Chairman Prince Uche Secondus and ex-governors Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Gabriel Suswam (Benue), and Sam Egwu (Ebonyi).
Other notable attendees included Senator Ben Obi, Josephine Anenih, Senator Austin Akobundu, Kola Ologbondiyan, and Abdullahi Maibasira.
In a communiqué presented by Senator Mark, the leaders expressed serious concern over the steady deterioration of the party’s strength since the 2023 presidential election and the resignation of former National Chairman Dr Iyorchia Ayu.
They pointed to growing internal disunity and what they described as systemic suppression by the APC-led federal government, saying these factors had severely compromised the PDP’s ability to function as a viable opposition force.
“Our dear party has never been the same again,” the communiqué stated. “The original vision of our founding fathers has been diluted, and the APC-controlled federal government continues to weaponise state institutions to undermine opposition voices and erode democratic principles.”
The leaders painted a bleak picture of the nation under the APC, citing worsening economic conditions, rising insecurity, and Nigeria’s declining international reputation. They referred to the ruling party as “a disaster to our nation” and called for its removal through the ballot box in 2027.
To this end, the PDP leaders advocated for a broad coalition that includes like-minded Nigerians committed to restoring good governance, economic recovery, national unity, and accountability.
“The PDP, with its national presence, institutional knowledge, and democratic legacy, remains the most credible platform to anchor this movement,” the statement added. “But it must rebuild itself through unity and strategic partnerships with other democratic forces.”
Also in attendance was Dr Umar Ardo, a key figure in the emerging All Democratic Alliance (ADA), suggesting the groundwork is being laid for a wider political realignment.
The leaders committed to collaborating with other opposition blocs to craft election-winning strategies that resonate across national and local levels, with the clear objective of reclaiming power in 2027.
“This is a moment for decisive action,” the statement concluded. “We call on all PDP loyalists and patriotic Nigerians to participate in a joint effort to rescue democracy and restore dignity to the Nigerian state.”
In closing remarks, the PDP elders, including Atiku Abubakar and David Mark, condemned the APC’s governance record, which they characterised as repressive and economically disastrous.
“The APC government, which came into existence through deceitful propaganda against the PDP, has proven to be a national catastrophe. All key indicators of development have collapsed, and everyday life for Nigerians has become unbearable,” the leaders declared.
“The PDP, once a symbol of democratic stability and national leadership, has been weakened by intimidation, coercion, and political patronage. Many elected officials have been forced to abandon the party in the face of relentless pressure from the APC government.”
