A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Diran Odeyemi, has expressed confidence in the party’s ability to withstand current challenges. According to Odeyemi, the PDP’s strength lies in its grassroots participation, which has consistently provided the party with legitimacy.

In an interview on TVC News, Odeyemi emphasized that the party’s decision-making process is rooted in the involvement of members at the ward and local government levels. He noted that while the national leadership plays a role in coordination, the real decisions emerge from the local chapters, giving the party its resilience and legitimacy.

Odeyemi cautioned against centralizing control of party congresses, warning that such a move could disrupt internal democracy and alienate members. He also dismissed concerns that leadership disputes at the national level could weaken the party, citing successful congresses in states like Ondo and Adamawa as evidence that PDP structures at the local level remain intact.

The former deputy publicity secretary attributed the party’s strength to its local presence, stating that “politics is local” and that as long as congresses are conducted peacefully at the grassroots and members are satisfied with their leaders, the PDP remains strong. He predicted that the party’s upcoming national convention would usher in a new beginning, marking a significant turning point for the PDP.

Odeyemi’s comments come at a time when the party is preparing for its national convention, scheduled to take place in December. The convention is expected to bring about changes in the party’s leadership, with grassroots leaders who understand the importance of peace potentially taking charge. With its strong foundation at the local level, the PDP is poised to overcome its current challenges and continue to play a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape.