Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has declared that the successful conduct of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention has reaffirmed the party’s eligibility to participate in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Speaking at the convention in Abuja, themed ‘A Convention of Inclusiveness, Unity, and Renewal,’
Saraki emphasised that the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) lent credibility to the exercise and reinforced trust in the party’s internal democratic processes.
According to Saraki, the visible participation of INEC officials at the event served as a critical validation of the convention’s legitimacy. He noted that for party members and aspirants alike, ensuring credible and transparent procedures remains central to rebuilding confidence within the PDP.
He stated that the development marks a turning point for the opposition party, which has faced internal challenges in recent years. With the convention successfully concluded, Saraki asserted that the PDP can now confidently field candidates in the 2027 elections without fears regarding its standing or recognition.
“Today presents a great opportunity for the PDP to chart a new path forward,” he said. “We now have a party that can confidently present candidates in the 2027 elections. No one can intimidate or mislead our aspirants into believing they will not be on the ballot.”
Saraki also revealed that interest in the party is growing, noting that some former members and observers are closely monitoring developments and may return following the successful convention. He encouraged unity within the party, calling on aggrieved members and those who had previously defected to rejoin and contribute to rebuilding efforts.
Highlighting the importance of collective responsibility, Saraki urged members to prioritise the party’s broader goals over personal ambitions. He stressed that the PDP must remain focused on strengthening its role in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
Furthermore, he appealed to newly elected party leaders to uphold fairness and ensure a level playing field for all aspirants. He warned that the sacrifices made to stabilise the party should not be undermined by bias or exclusion.
The former Kwara State governor concluded by describing the convention as a renewed effort to reposition the PDP as a formidable political force, capable of competing effectively and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.
