Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has assured members and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that there is no cause for alarm over the recent defections in Delta State, declaring that the party is undergoing a strategic rebirth and will emerge stronger.
Reacting to the high-profile defections from the PDP in Delta State, including that of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s running mate in the last election, Saraki described the development as unfortunate but not unexpected. He said the party is better off with a committed few than a multitude with divided loyalty.
“Let those who want to leave, leave now,” Saraki said in a strongly-worded statement issued Wednesday. “We need to know who truly stands with us so we can concentrate on rebuilding and repositioning the PDP to provide a credible alternative for Nigerians.”
Saraki, who also holds the traditional title of Waziri of Ilorin, emphasized that a one-party system, as allegedly being orchestrated by some actors, is dangerous for a diverse country like Nigeria. “A one-party state as being disingenuously designed by some people will not augur well for a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and highly diversified society like ours,” he warned.
He added that the strength of any democracy lies in the presence of viable opposition, stating that “to sustain democracy, there must be viable choices for people at every point.”
Saraki, who noted that he had chosen to remain quiet while observing political developments, said recent events have justified his silence. “There was no sincerity among supposed leaders of the opposition. You never knew where the next person stood,” he stated.
He called on PDP members nationwide not to be discouraged or demoralised by the Delta episode. “This is not the end. Politics is a marathon, not a knockout match. 24 hours is a long time in politics. So much can change before the next elections,” Saraki explained.
While describing the defection of a key running mate to the ruling party as “unprecedented” and “a sign of how low we have sunk as a polity,” Saraki urged members to focus inward instead of blaming the ruling party. “That would be a lazy approach. They’re playing politics to win. We must rise to the occasion and make our party stronger,” he added.
Despite the recent exits, Saraki maintained that the PDP remains in a strong position to compete and win. “Even if we have just ten governors left, we can still win. What matters is loyalty, sincerity, and commitment to the party’s vision.”
Encouraging the youth and women of the party, he said, “Our young members must see this as a challenge to mobilize, while the women’s wing should take this as an opportunity to rebuild with energy and purpose.”
He concluded with an assurance that the PDP leadership will soon convene meetings to strategize and respond effectively. “Our future is still very bright. There is no cause for alarm.”
