Amid speculation about his political allegiances, Bukola Saraki, a senior figure in Nigeria’s opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has firmly denied urging supporters to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The former Senate President and current chairman of the PDP’s Reconciliation Committee addressed the rumors during a closed-door meeting with party stakeholders in Kwara State, a political stronghold in Nigeria’s North Central region.
Saraki, who hosted leaders from all 16 local government areas at his residence in Ilorin, Kwara’s capital, emphasized his commitment to the PDP. He attributed his decision to remain with the party to its ongoing internal restructuring efforts, which he claimed would soon yield positive outcomes. “We are staying in the PDP because the ongoing efforts to reposition the party will bear fruit,” he said, positioning himself as a stabilizing figure amid recent turbulence.
The meeting marked an attempt to quell concerns among local party members, who had sought clarity on Saraki’s stance following months of heightened political maneuvering within the PDP. Nigeria’s main opposition party has faced internal divisions and electoral setbacks in recent years, prompting efforts to rebuild its national influence. Saraki framed the gathering as a familial dialogue, stressing transparency: “I’m here as a democrat whose people asked for clarity. You deserve to hear the truth directly from me.”
His remarks notably targeted claims that he had privately encouraged defections to the ADC, a smaller opposition group. “Let me state unequivocally: I never directed anyone to join the ADC in this state,” he asserted, dismissing what he called “innuendo” about his intentions. The denial came amid broader speculation about political realignments ahead of Nigeria’s next electoral cycle, with factions within the PDP navigating competing strategies to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress.
While Saraki did not detail specific reforms, his confidence in the PDP’s revival reflects his role in mediating internal disputes. A two-term governor of Kwara and former head of Nigeria’s National Assembly, his influence within the party and home state remains significant. Analysts note that his public reaffirmation of loyalty could help consolidate support in Kwara, where the PDP seeks to regain ground lost during the 2019 elections.
The meeting underscored the delicate balance opposition leaders face in maintaining unity while addressing grassroots concerns. As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves, Saraki’s stance highlights both the challenges of party cohesion and the strategic calculations shaping the PDP’s path forward.
