According to Nigerian Tribune, Former governor of Jigawa State and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Sule Lamido, recently shared his thoughts on the current state and future of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the former ruling party in Nigeria. As one of the founding fathers of the PDP, Lamido’s insights hold significant weight within the political landscape of Nigeria. He expressed confidence in the ability of the PDP to regain power from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 general election. Lamido believes that despite the challenges the party has faced, there is a path forward for the PDP to re-establish itself as the leading political force in Nigeria.
Lamido emphasized the importance of unity within the PDP, noting that the party must present a united front if it aims to successfully challenge President Bola Tinubu and the APC. He stressed that internal party disagreements and rivalries need to be resolved to strengthen the party’s position. According to Lamido, the PDP’s ability to present a coherent and compelling alternative to the current government will be crucial in gaining the trust and support of the Nigerian electorate.
In discussing the political landscape, Lamido touched on the recent appointment of Nyesom Wike, a PDP member, as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under President Tinubu’s administration. This appointment has raised eyebrows within political circles, given Wike’s affiliation with the main opposition party. Lamido suggested that Wike’s position in Tinubu’s government could potentially create friction within the PDP, as members grapple with the implications of this political crossover. However, Lamido maintained that the party’s leadership is capable of navigating these complexities to maintain cohesion.
When asked about the strategies the PDP would employ to win the next general election, Lamido highlighted the need for robust grassroots engagement and the formulation of policies that address the concerns of ordinary Nigerians. He argued that the PDP’s success would depend on its ability to connect with the electorate on a personal level, offering solutions to pressing issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, and corruption. Lamido’s comments suggest that the party is keenly aware of the need to rejuvenate its public image and build a platform that resonates with voters.
Lamido also offered his perspective on President Tinubu’s rise to power, pointing out that Tinubu’s success did not rely on the endorsement of former President Muhammadu Buhari or support from influential political groups such as Afenifere or former President Olusegun Obasanjo. According to Lamido, Tinubu’s ability to overcome these obstacles demonstrates his political acumen and determination. This observation underscored Lamido’s belief that political success in Nigeria is achievable through perseverance and strategic maneuvering, even in the face of significant opposition.
He said: Tinubu knows that his victory wasn’t from Buhari, therefore, he owes him nothing. He wasn’t the choice of Afenifere, Obasanjo never liked him, but he became president. All the other groups, including the governors, were there but he won. He was determined to demolish all obstacles and he crushed them.