Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains a formidable political force despite its ongoing internal crisis.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday evening, Saraki dismissed claims that the opposition party has lost relevance, attributing such perceptions to disagreements among party leaders rather than realities at the grassroots.
According to him, while political tensions may dominate discussions in Abuja, the PDP continues to enjoy strong support across states and communities nationwide.
“When you stay here in Abuja, you might say that because of the noise from leaders having their disagreements. But when you go to the states and the grassroots, you will find that PDP is still very strong,” he said.
Citing Kwara state as an example, Saraki said feedback from stakeholders and party loyalists indicates sustained support for the PDP, describing the party as “very sellable” across the country.
On internal party matters, the former governor disclosed that he initially opposed the Ibadan convention but later allowed delegates from Kwara to participate after assurances that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would attend to legitimise the process.
He, however, noted that INEC was absent, insisting that the exercise should have been halted under such circumstances to uphold due process.
Saraki also dismissed speculation about a possible defection, reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP. He explained that his recent low profile was due to his decision not to contest upcoming elections, rather than any withdrawal from party activities.
The former senate president confirmed he would attend the party’s next national convention and urged members to do the same to strengthen unity within the PDP.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Saraki advocated zoning the party’s presidential ticket to the South while allocating the national chairman position to the North-Central region to ensure balance.
He acknowledged that the party’s crisis has affected its progress but expressed optimism that it could emerge stronger if the issues are properly managed.
Saraki also warned against the risk of a one-party state, stressing that a vibrant opposition is essential for Nigeria’s democracy.
