The upcoming series of meetings convened by the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) this week is poised to determine the party's future unity and coherence. Scheduled for Thursday, April 18, 2023, the NEC meeting will be preceded by a caucus gathering on Tuesday, April 16, followed by a meeting of the Board of Trustees (BoT) on Wednesday, April 17. Leaders within the party have hinted at contentious topics likely to be addressed, including internal discipline, preparations for upcoming Edo and Ondo governorship elections, and overall party cohesion.
Another significant issue on the agenda is the proposed discussions regarding a possible merger of opposition parties and the role the PDP should play in such talks. Additionally, there are speculations surrounding the 2027 presidential race and whether the party should pursue a clean break from the past or maintain a balance between experienced leaders and emerging voices. Divisions have also emerged among the party's governors, particularly along regional lines, as they position themselves for the 2027 general election and potential presidential candidacy.
Former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, has emerged as a candidate for the national chairmanship position of the PDP. He asserts that his extensive experience and leadership qualities make him a suitable candidate to complete the tenure of Senator Iyorcha Ayu, who was removed from the post by a court order. Suswam emphasizes the importance of adhering to the party's zoning arrangement, which designates the North Central region for the chairmanship position. He assures that his candidacy is based on consensus and understanding within the party.
Suswam dismisses notions of factionalism within the PDP and reaffirms Atiku Abubakar's leadership as the party's presidential candidate. He underscores the need for a strong opposition party to provide a viable alternative to the current challenges facing Nigeria under the APC administration. Suswam pledges to leverage his political experience to address the party's challenges and restore its position as a formidable opposition force in the country.
In summary, the forthcoming meetings within the PDP are pivotal for charting the party's course forward. The discussions are expected to address internal conflicts, electoral strategies, and leadership transitions, with the aim of strengthening the party's unity and effectiveness as a political entity.
