The Peoples Democratic Party has expressed confidence in the eventual collapse of the recently formed opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking on Thursday during the PDP’s 101st National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, the party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, described the PDP as a strong and united platform ready to reclaim power in 2027.

On July 1, the African Democratic Congress was adopted as the coalition platform for opposition leaders seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

Notable political figures who have recently joined the ADC-led coalition include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu, among others.

In response, Damagum stated that many individuals who initially joined the coalition have already returned to the PDP, with some even insisting they never left and only attended a single meeting.

Damagum stated, “I have no charge beyond this; that we deliberate sincerely and make decisions that serve the interest of the PDP and the Nigerian people.

“However, I must address the matter of a so-called coalition recently formed, which includes some defecting members of our part

On this issue, I am pleased to report that this political experiment is nothing to lose sleep over.

“They say, a bird in hand is worth two in the bush. Some people have recently learned this truth in the most uncomfortable way.

“Many who jumped on the coalition bandwagon have already returned to our fold. Some even claim they never left and merely attended a meeting; we accept their confessions without prejudice.

“Let me add that this reversal is not limited to PDP members alone. Individuals from other political parties who initially joined this coalition have realised that the venture is ill-fated, and their swift return is proof of this.

“The Peoples Democratic Party remains the only party that is not only poised and ready to take back power, but also the only party with the structure, national acceptability, and legacy capable of bearing the weight of this great national undertaking.

“To close this matter, I believe that all of us look forward to the total dismantling of this ill-fated coalition, even as we extend our best wishes to those involved.”

He thanked all party stakeholders for their commitment during critical times and also praised the state chairmen for their efforts.

He added, “Let me begin by appreciating our state party chairpersons, who are the first line of defence in our democratic struggle.

“It is from your leadership that our grassroots structures are nurtured and sustained. Your resilience, especially in states where we are in opposition, is commendable.

“We recognise the burdens you carry and salute your unwavering commitment to the party. You are comrades in the trenches of democracy.

“I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Minority Leaders of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as all our legislators in the National Assembly. You have represented the values of our party with integrity and tenacity. I must emphasise that it is because of your steadfastness that when we eventually reclaim the presidency, the next PDP president will not be a political orphan left to the mercy of hostile forces.

“Beyond electoral victories, our legislators play a crucial role in both governance and party life. Through your actions, anti-people policies are challenged and checked. You serve as role models to our state assembly members, who themselves are doing tremendous work delivering the dividends of representative democracy and supporting the executive arm in PDP-led states.”

Damagum hailed the governors as the backbone and pride of the party.

“You remain the backbone of this party, and without your leadership and sacrifice, we would be left exposed. We are indeed fortunate to have you”, Damagun concluded. (PUNCH)

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