Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has criticised the wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying those leaving for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are acting out of frustration rather than clear political vision.
Speaking at the Consultative Conference of PDP Founding Fathers and Stakeholders held Wednesday in Abuja, Saraki urged party members to focus on strategy and ideology rather than emotions.
“I left this party once out of anger. But anger doesn’t solve leadership problems,” Saraki said. “Many are leaving now, not because of plans or vision, but out of anger — and that’s not the way forward.”
Themed “Reclaiming Our Legacy, Renewing Our Collective Vision,” the event comes as key figures like Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, and Dele Momodu have joined the ADC-led coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. Others, including Governors Umo Eno and Sheriff Oborevwori, and PDP’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, have defected to the APC.
Saraki defended the PDP’s record, citing achievements during its 16-year rule.
“We turned Nigeria into Africa’s largest economy. We achieved double-digit GDP growth, ensured national security, and fostered unity. Today, the country has fallen to fourth place economically, and the division is worse than ever.”
Acknowledging the party’s internal challenges, Saraki stressed that abandoning the PDP was not a solution.
“Every party has its problems — even the ruling party after nearly 12 years. Are their results better than ours? Clearly not. So what exactly are they offering Nigerians?”
He urged members to remain steadfast, saying the party still holds the best promise for Nigeria’s future.
“History will not be kind to us if we allow this party to collapse under our watch,” he warned. “This is not the time to run. We must fix what’s broken. Walking away isn’t an option.”
Reaffirming his commitment, Saraki declared, “I’m a fighter. I will not give up on this party. Let’s be clear: leaving the PDP is not an option. We must be fair, protect each other’s rights, and find a united path forward.”
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