The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set on a mission to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape in 2027, pledging to not only produce more state governors but to also take control of the central government. This bold declaration comes amidst growing frustration among Nigerians over economic hardship and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)’s inability to address key national issues.
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP made this pronouncement during a visit to Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, at his country home in Sampou, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, on January 5, 2025. Alhaji Ahmed Yayare, the PDP National Treasurer, spoke on behalf of the NWC, stressing that the party’s victory in 2027 was inevitable, given the widespread disenchantment with the APC’s leadership.
“PDP is the only viable opposition party that can take power from the APC,” Yayare asserted. “If we do not wrest control of the country, democracy itself may cease to exist in Nigeria. The call for change is too loud to ignore.” His words come as Nigeria grapples with high inflation, unemployment, and insecurity, leaving many citizens questioning the APC’s ability to manage the country’s complex challenges.
Yayare’s comments highlighted the severity of Nigeria’s economic struggles: “The cries of hunger and poverty echo across the 36 states. Nothing, I believe, can stop the PDP from producing both the president and vice president in 2027. The time for change is now.”
The NWC’s visit to Diri also served as a platform for political strategizing ahead of the 2027 elections. Yayare outlined plans to traverse PDP-governed states to garner support and solidify the party’s position as the nation’s leading alternative to the APC. However, he urged PDP governors to unite in their collective goal of rescuing Nigeria.
“This unity is crucial,” said Yayare. “If we close ranks, we will present a formidable front. Our message is clear: Nigeria belongs to us all, and we need to unite for its betterment.”
Alongside the political discourse, the NWC expressed condolences to Governor Diri over the deaths of Bayelsa’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Elizabeth Bidei, and the former Deputy Inspector General of Police, Moses Jituboh. This visit, blending political dialogue with empathy, served to reinforce the NWC’s image as a party of unity and resilience.
The PDP’s National Secretary, Ude Okoye, echoed Yayare’s sentiments. He expressed the NWC’s commitment to revamping the party’s internal structure and strengthening its appeal to the Nigerian electorate. “The PDP is not just an alternative; it is the best option for quality leadership in Nigeria,” Okoye said. “We will continue to make strides in re-establishing respect for the party, ensuring that it is the party of the people.”
The NWC’s statements reflect an unyielding resolve to reclaim the political narrative in the country, with a clear focus on building trust with Nigerian voters. Okoye lauded Governor Diri’s leadership, describing it as exemplary. “Under his stewardship, Bayelsa has witnessed impressive developmental progress. We, as a party, are proud of his achievements.”
Governor Diri responded to the NWC’s praise with humility but also with a firm commitment to the party’s vision. He stressed the need for PDP members, especially governors, to work cohesively for the party’s success in 2027. Diri cautioned against any actions that could destabilize the party from within, warning that PDP’s survival depended on unity and discipline.
“As governors, we must put aside personal interests for the greater good of the party,” Diri remarked. “We cannot afford to allow petty differences to undermine what we’ve worked for. PDP gave us the platform to serve, and we must protect it.” His statement was a direct call to action for all PDP leaders to avoid divisiveness and maintain focus on the party’s shared goals.
The Governor’s resolve was further illustrated in his stance on the possibility of a mega-party formation. Diri expressed support for the idea of uniting forces with other like-minded political groups, ensuring that PDP remains at the forefront of Nigeria’s political scene. “If we come together, we can form a more formidable force to take over the center in 2027. But we must remain vigilant, and above all, united.”
He also made it clear that those who were not willing to fully support the PDP’s ideals should leave the party. “If anyone is bigger than the party, they can leave. This is the party that has made us, and we owe it our loyalty and dedication,” Diri stated, reinforcing the idea of internal party discipline and loyalty as a cornerstone for success.
The NWC’s visit to Bayelsa is part of a broader strategy to reconnect with the electorate and solidify PDP’s role as a credible alternative to the current ruling party. The NWC’s statements underline the party’s readiness for the 2027 elections, setting the stage for an intense political battle that promises to reshape Nigeria’s future. The NWC is not only focused on winning more states but on taking back the presidency in what they believe is an inevitable political shift.
As Nigeria heads into a period of economic recovery and potential political realignment, the PDP’s leaders remain resolute in their ambition. “The next election will be the moment of reckoning for Nigeria,” said Yayare, summing up the party’s central message. “We need to reclaim our country, and that begins with electing the right leadership.”
