Former Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has described the 2026 Elective National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a celebration of democracy and a clear sign of the party’s resilience after recent challenges.
Saraki stressed that the successful conduct of the convention provides a solid platform for the nomination of candidates for the 2027 general elections, assuring aspirants and supporters that the PDP will be on the ballot.
Speaking at the convention held at the velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Saraki said the large turnout of party faithful demonstrated that the PDP remains deeply rooted across the country and committed to reclaiming its political strength.
He expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness the event, noting that the gathering underscored that the PDP is “alive and kicking.”
According to him, the party’s restoration process will be anchored on reconciliation, accommodation, repositioning, and rejuvenation.
Saraki recalled that the convention marked the party’s second attempt at conducting a nationally recognised exercise, following the nullification of an earlier effort.
He, however, noted that the presence of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and key stakeholders had now validated the process.
“The primary aim for many of us is to create a credible platform for those who wish to contest in 2027. With the legality and validity of today’s process, no one can cast doubts on our participation in the next elections,” he said.
Saraki warned that failure to present candidates in future elections would amount to the demise of the party, adding that such an outcome would not be allowed under the watch of committed party leaders.
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Reconciliation
He pledged to actively support reconciliation efforts and urged aggrieved members to set aside personal interests in favour of unity.
He said the convention had sent a strong message to skeptics that the PDP remains a viable political force, capable of providing a credible alternative to Nigerians.
Describing the convention as a means to an end, Saraki emphasised that the ultimate goal is electoral victory.
He urged members to remain steadfast in pursuing reconciliation to strengthen the party ahead of future contests.
The former Senate President congratulated members of the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC), charging them to prioritise winning elections at all levels in 2027.
He called for transparent, credible, and rancour-free primaries to ensure unity among aspirants and supporters.
He also urged the new leadership to improve the party’s membership registration exercise to boost participation and maintain accurate records.
Saraki commended the organisers of the convention for what he described as a well-coordinated and colourful event.
He specifically praised Okezie Ikpeazu, Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for their roles in ensuring a successful outing.
He further appreciated delegates, stakeholders, observers, electoral officials, security personnel, and members of the media for their contributions to the success of the convention, and prayed for safe journeys for all attendees.
Saraki concluded by expressing optimism about the future of the PDP, praying for the party’s return to power for the benefit of Nigerians.