Rita Odafe
Unity Amidst Political Aspirations
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Senate President Bukola Saraki have urged leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to reconcile their differences and prioritize the party’s unity over individual presidential ambitions.
This call was made at the inauguration of the Board of Governors and the launch of a strategic plan for the Peoples Democratic Institute at the party’s national office in Abuja.
The gathering provided an opportunity for party officials to voice their worries about internal divisions that may undermine the PDP’s integrity.
Their urgent request comes in light of tensions brought on by the presidential aspirations of notable figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed, and Governor Makinde himself, which could impede the ongoing reconciliation efforts under the leadership of Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
Recently, the PDP has been fragmented, with factions aligning themselves with Atiku or Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, intensifying internal conflicts.
Moreover, the situation escalated when Governor Mohammed, who heads the PDP Governors’ Forum, revealed plans to run for the presidency in 2027.
During the event, Saraki highlighted the historical significance of the PDP as a people’s party that should not be compromised by personal political goals. He stated, “Our party is founded on principles and policies. We need to distance ourselves from ambitions driven solely by individual desires. A party thrives on unity and shared ideas.
“We should refrain from fixating on the 2027 elections. Instead, we must concentrate on the PDP’s core values and the vital issues we need to address. This is what the people of Nigeria care about. This institute holds great importance, and I encourage others to support it, as it lays the groundwork for our future.”
