Victory in 2027 is achievable, but only if we take decisive action now – Hon (Dr). Joshua Gana
A member of the House of Representatives in Niger State, Hon. Joshua Gana has spoken about the People’s Democratic Party’s ((PDP) crises and hope for 2027.
PDP, once Nigeria’s most dominant political force, has been struggling with leadership tussle and internal disagreements.
The party held power from 1999 to 2015, ruling for 16 consecutive years. However, since losing the presidency in 2015, PDP has faced repeated setbacks in its attempts to reclaim power, resulting in numerous defections by its members.
The current Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, a former PDP member, previously served as Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Senate Minority Leader before defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in August 2018.
Also, David Umahi, a former PDP Governor of Ebonyi State, switched allegiance to the APC in November 2020, citing perceived injustices against the Southeast region by the PDP.
More recently, Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) and former PDP governorship candidate for Lagos State, Azeez Olajide Adediran, have also defected from the party.
However, Hon. Joshua Gana, a rising star in Nigerian politics and a PDP lawmaker in the House of Representatives, representing the Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency in Niger State, remains optimistic about the party’s ability to regain lost ground and emerge stronger.
In this exclusive interview with New Daily Prime, Gana shares his insights on the party’s challenges, strategic reforms, and roadmap to 2027.
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“PDP Must Fix Internal Divisions & Stop Further Defections”
Speaking on the recent wave of defections, Hon. Gana acknowledges that the party has been weakened by internal disputes. However, he remains confident that defections are not permanent, and that PDP can win back former members through strategic reconciliation efforts.
“Yes, we have seen some of our members leave, but politics is dynamic. Many who left did so due to disagreements or personal interests, not because they no longer believe in the PDP. If we address these concerns and put our house in order, many of them will return.”
He noted that the key to stopping further losses is a firm commitment to internal restructuring, particularly at the state and national levels.
“What we need now is unity and leadership that listens to the concerns of every member. If the PDP remains divided, we will struggle in 2027. But if we rebuild trust, we will regain our lost strength.”
Hon. Gana dismissed the notion that APC is unbeatable, stating that the ruling party has failed to deliver on many of its promises.
“The economy is struggling, inflation is skyrocketing, and insecurity remains a problem. Nigerians are tired of APC’s excuses. PDP must position itself as the credible alternative.”
He further argued that the massive youth engagement witnessed in the 2023 elections signals that Nigerians want a government that truly represents them.
“Young people are no longer passive in politics. They want leaders who genuinely care about their future. PDP must embrace this new reality and give young Nigerians a reason to believe in us again.”
Who Should Lead the PDP in 2027?
As 2027 approaches, speculation is mounting over who will lead the PDP into the presidential election. While many anticipate Atiku Abubakar, Bukola Saraki, and Nyesom Wike to throw their hats in the ring, others are advocating for the return of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to the party.
There is also growing discussion about the possibility of a fresh face, with Seyi Makinde emerging as a potential contender. However, Hon. Gana believes it is too early to make any definitive predictions.
“How I wish I had the spiritual power to foresee the future. Atiku or Obi, Saraki or Wike, Kwankwaso or Makinde—this is a crucial question for the party’s future.”
He acknowledged the influence of these political heavyweights, saying:
“All of them are prominent figures with strong support bases. Although Obi and Kwankwaso are not currently PDP members, there are those who believe they could return.”
He also hinted at the potential emergence of new political figures, adding:
“Some are calling for a younger candidate—someone who can learn from experienced leaders and chart a new course. Keep an eye out for fresh faces who may enter the race.”
What PDP Is Doing to Prevent Further Losses
Hon. Gana reassured party supporters that PDP is actively working to prevent further defections by engaging aggrieved members, rebuilding trust, resolving internal disputes and strengthening the party’s grassroots presence.
He dismissed rumours that some PDP governors plan to defect to APC, saying, “That is not true. Those who left PDP were already frustrated, and many of them are on their way back. It is actually APC governors who will defect to PDP before 2027.”
My Role in Strengthening the PDP Before 2027
As a young and internationally experienced leader, Hon. Joshua Gana is committed to playing a key role in rebuilding the PDP and positioning it for electoral success in 2027.
Drawing from his role as the Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee on Power in the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, which is statutory until the end of the 10th Assembly, he highlights how his experience in diplomacy, strategic negotiations, and international cooperation can be effectively applied to strengthen the party.
Hon. Gana outlines his contributions to PDP’s revival, emphasizing the importance of party unity and reconciliation, youth engagement and mobilization, strengthening grassroots support and reshaping PDP’s public image as a credible alternative to APC, “As a young leader, I am committed to playing an active role in PDP’s revival, ensuring that we stand strong as a united party ready to lead Nigeria toward progress and prosperity.”
Through strategic engagement and proactive leadership, Hon. Gana is determined to ensure that PDP emerges stronger, more united, and well-positioned for victory in the 2027 elections.
Finally, as 2027 fast approaches, PDP’s ability to regain power will depend on: resolving leadership disputes, winning back defectors, engaging young Nigerians and effectively countering APC’s dominance.
The party must prioritize unity, strategic reforms, and grassroots mobilization to present itself as a viable alternative to Nigerians.
Hon. Joshua Gana remains optimistic, believing that PDP’s future is bright—provided decisive action is taken now.
“Victory in 2027 is achievable, but only if we take decisive action now.”
