A senior member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Muhammadu Abdullahi Sugar, has cautioned the governors of Bauchi and Zamfara States against defecting to the All Progressives Congress. Sugar’s warning comes amidst concerns that the ruling party is exerting pressure on opposition governors to switch allegiance.
Speaking in Kano, Sugar urged Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to remain committed to the PDP. He warned that attempts by the APC-led Federal Government to lure or intimidate opposition governors could compromise Nigeria’s democratic system. Sugar noted that many Nigerians are increasingly dissatisfied with the performance of the APC government, and recent defections by elected officials have raised concerns about political intimidation.
The PDP chieftain argued that such defections undermine democratic values and constitute a breach of the mandate given by voters. Many of those who defected were elected on platforms other than the APC, he pointed out. Sugar emphasized that defecting to the ruling party would not address the country’s challenges, and some governors who switched parties did so under pressure.
Despite the PDP losing some members to defections, Sugar maintained that the development would not weaken the party’s resolve ahead of the 2027 general elections. He expressed confidence that the performance of PDP governors, particularly in the North, would strengthen the party’s prospects and restore public confidence. The PDP’s ability to deliver on its campaign promises and provide effective governance would ultimately determine its success, Sugar added.
The issue of defections has sparked debate about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the role of political parties in the country. As the 2027 elections approach, the PDP and other opposition parties will need to navigate the challenges posed by defections and maintain their commitment to their respective platforms. The ability of opposition governors to resist pressure from the ruling party will be crucial in determining the outcome of the elections and the future of Nigeria’s democratic system.
