Adeyemi Adeleye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has announced that its long-divided factions have reunited, setting the stage for a strong challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
This development was confirmed in a communiqué released on Sunday following a high-profile reconciliation meeting held on Saturday in Victoria Island. The meeting was hosted by Alhaji Muritala Ashorobi, the Chairman of the PDP Reconciliation Committee and the pioneer chairman of the party in Lagos State.
Ashorobi said party leaders had resolved to work together to strengthen the PDP and mobilize Lagos residents to unseat the APC in the next general elections. He assured members that unity within the party was now a top priority, as internal conflicts had previously weakened their electoral chances.
A History of Division in Lagos PDP
The PDP in Lagos State has been plagued by internal crises and leadership struggles for years. These divisions have repeatedly cost the party the governorship seat and other major political positions in the state. In past elections, factional disputes led to parallel primaries, court battles, and defections of key members to rival parties, particularly the APC.
Since 1999, the APC and its predecessors have dominated Lagos politics, making it difficult for the PDP to gain a foothold. While the opposition party has managed to secure some federal and legislative seats, it has failed to win the governorship in the state’s democratic history.
Party insiders believe that disunity among PDP leaders and members has been a major factor in these losses. However, with this latest reconciliation effort, stakeholders are optimistic about the party’s chances in 2027.
Agreement to Maintain Party Structure
One of the key decisions made at the meeting was the agreement to maintain the current party structure in Lagos State. This move is aimed at preventing further disputes over leadership positions and allowing members to focus on grassroots mobilization ahead of the elections.
Ashorobi called on all party members to work together and remain committed to the PDP’s objectives. He specifically urged members in the 20 local government areas of Lagos to intensify efforts in reaching out to residents and gaining their support.
“We must mobilize Lagosians and ensure that the APC is removed in 2027,” Ashorobi declared, urging every member to contribute to the party’s resurgence.
Warning Against Anti-Party Activities
During the meeting, Ashorobi issued a strong warning to party members who secretly support or collaborate with the APC. He stated that any individual engaging in anti-party activities should either stop immediately or leave the PDP.
He also criticized the ruling APC, claiming that the party had failed Nigerians and should be voted out in the next elections. According to him, the PDP must take advantage of growing dissatisfaction with the APC’s governance and present a credible alternative to the electorate.
“The APC has disappointed Lagosians and Nigerians at large. The suffering in the country is unbearable, and we cannot allow this to continue beyond 2027,” Ashorobi said.
PDP Elders and Leaders Present at the Meeting
The reconciliation meeting was attended by several prominent PDP leaders, further demonstrating the seriousness of the unity efforts.
Among those present were Chief Olabode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP and a respected leader in the South-West. George, who is also a life member of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), has been a key figure in the party’s political strategy in Lagos.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu, a former minister and senior party member, as well as Mrs. Aduke Maina, a former BoT member. The meeting also had in attendance the current Lagos State PDP Chairman, Mr. Philip Aivoji, alongside members of the reconciliation committee and the state executive council.
Their presence signaled a collective commitment to ending years of division and ensuring the PDP is well-prepared for the next election cycle.
Challenges Ahead for Lagos PDP
While the reconciliation is a significant step forward, analysts believe that the PDP still faces several challenges in its bid to unseat the APC in Lagos. The ruling party remains deeply entrenched in the state’s political and economic structures, making it difficult for opposition parties to break through.
Additionally, voter confidence in the PDP needs to be restored. Over the years, many Lagos residents have been reluctant to support the PDP due to its history of internal conflicts and instability. Party leaders will need to demonstrate that the reconciliation is genuine and that the PDP can provide better governance than the APC.
Furthermore, the party must navigate the upcoming local government elections and state congresses without reigniting old disputes. Many observers believe that how the PDP manages its internal affairs in the next two years will determine its chances in the 2027 elections.
PDP’s Strategy for 2027
With its leaders now united, the Lagos PDP is expected to focus on several strategies to strengthen its electoral chances. These include grassroots mobilization, strategic alliances, and increased voter engagement. Party members have been urged to intensify door-to-door campaigns and community outreach programs to convince Lagosians that the PDP can provide better governance.
Additionally, the party is expected to begin consultations on selecting strong candidates for key positions, particularly the governorship ticket. In previous elections, disputes over candidate selection led to defections and weak campaigns. This time, party leaders have pledged to ensure a transparent and consensus-driven process.
The PDP is also expected to take advantage of public dissatisfaction with the APC’s policies, particularly issues such as inflation, unemployment, and insecurity. By presenting clear policy alternatives and demonstrating unity, the PDP hopes to convince voters that it is ready to govern Lagos.
A New Dawn for Lagos PDP?
Many political analysts see this reconciliation as a crucial moment for the PDP in Lagos. If the unity holds and the party effectively organizes itself, it could pose a serious challenge to the APC in 2027. However, past experiences show that sustaining party unity can be difficult, especially as elections draw closer and personal ambitions come into play.
For now, PDP members in Lagos are hopeful that this reunion will mark the beginning of a stronger and more competitive party. As preparations for the 2027 elections begin, all eyes will be on the party’s ability to stay united and deliver a credible alternative to Lagosians.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the PDP can finally break the APC’s stronghold in Lagos and turn this reconciliation into electoral success.
