Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, former Senate President and a prominent leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has sought to downplay the recent defections from the party’s Delta State chapter, reassuring party loyalists that there is no reason to panic.
In a statement released amidst growing concerns over the exit of high-profile figures, including the state governor, Saraki encouraged committed party members to stay focused on the task of rebuilding the PDP for future elections.
“There is no cause for alarm,” Saraki said. “Those who wish to leave the PDP are free to go. The rest of us who believe in the party’s values must remain united and focused on restructuring the party to provide a strong alternative for Nigerians.”
He stressed the importance of a robust opposition in a democratic society and warned that a shift towards a one-party system could undermine Nigeria’s stability.
“A one-party state poses a serious threat to our diverse, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious nation. Without genuine alternatives, we risk fostering despair,” Saraki cautioned.
Commenting on the defection of the PDP’s former vice-presidential candidate to the ruling party, Saraki described the move as both “unprecedented and disappointing,” pointing to it as evidence of the leadership crisis affecting the political scene.
Despite the high-profile departures, Saraki remained optimistic, asserting that the PDP would ultimately be stronger with a smaller group of loyal members rather than a large, disloyal following.
He also hinted that the party might see some influential figures from other parties join its ranks in the near future.
Saraki urged the youth and women wings of the party to take charge of the rebuilding effort, calling the current situation a challenge that the PDP could overcome.
“This is not a setback—it’s an opportunity for growth. We have ample time to reorganize and come back even stronger,” he concluded.
In closing, Saraki rallied PDP supporters, stating: “Let us remain united and focused. This is not the end—our future remains bright.”
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