Saraki PDP crisis warning urges reconciliation within PDP to avoid missing the 2027 ballot and restore party stability
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has warned that it would amount to a national embarrassment if the Peoples Democratic Party fails to secure a place on the ballot in the 2027 general elections due to its ongoing internal crisis.
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Speaking on Sunday at the party’s 2026 National Convention held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Bukola Saraki emphasised that reconciliation efforts within the party are essential to preserving its credibility and ensuring members have a viable platform to contest future elections.
The Saraki PDP crisis warning underscored concerns that unresolved internal disputes could weaken the party’s electoral prospects if not properly addressed.
Bukola Saraki urged stakeholders to prioritise unity and long-term stability over individual ambitions.
“Let us be able to allow people that want to contest for 2027 on PDP platform. It would be a shame if, by our own goal, one way or the other, we’re not on that ballot,” Bukola Saraki said.
He acknowledged that the process of rebuilding the party had been challenging, noting that those involved had faced sustained pressure and criticism.
Despite these difficulties, Bukola Saraki described the convention as a reassuring step forward, particularly highlighting the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission as a sign of institutional engagement.
“When I walked in here, saw the attendance, saw INEC here, I said… Alhamdulillah. Because that’s the issue. Everything else doesn’t matter,” he added.
Bukola Saraki further explained that renewed confidence among party members stems from the belief that the PDP remains a credible platform for political participation.
He noted that aspirants are motivated by the opportunity to pursue their ambitions under a unified structure.
According to Bukola Saraki, reconciliation efforts are ongoing, including outreach to members who were absent from the convention.
He expressed optimism that dialogue would continue in order to bring all factions together under a common goal.
“For those who are not here, I hope that the doors are not closed… I will continue to talk to them and engage with them,” he said.
Bukola Saraki also called on party leaders to set aside personal interests in favour of collective progress, stressing the importance of supporting younger aspirants who depend on the party’s platform to advance their political careers.
Also read: Saraki Urges PDP Leaders to Heed Court Ruling
The PDP has faced persistent internal challenges since the 2023 general elections, but Bukola Saraki’s remarks reflect a determined effort to restore cohesion and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 polls.
