“Those Who Want to Leave PDP Should Leave Now” – Saraki

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called on insincere leaders within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to leave, asserting that their departure would pave the way for the genuine rebuilding of the opposition party. Reacting to recent defections within the Delta State chapter of the PDP, including that of high-profile leaders, Saraki stressed that the time had come for the party to consolidate around committed and sincere members.

In a statement released on Thursday, Saraki described the defections as unsurprising and even necessary, noting that they exposed the lack of sincerity among some supposed leaders of the opposition. “Those who want to leave the PDP should leave now and let the rest of us who want to stay concentrate on rebuilding the party,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of a vibrant opposition in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy, warning against efforts to create a one-party state. According to Saraki, eliminating alternatives risks deepening political hopelessness in a diverse society like Nigeria’s.

He called on PDP members across the country not to be discouraged by the events in Delta State but to remain focused on strengthening the party ahead of the next elections. “The PDP is merely experiencing a rebirth,” he said. “All we need is for those who want to stay back in PDP to show commitment and we can all work to rebuild the party.”

Saraki also criticized the recent defection of the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate to the ruling party, calling it “unprecedented” and a sign of declining political values. However, he expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to recover, saying that the party would benefit from having fewer but more loyal and sincere members.

He urged the party’s youth and women to view this moment as an opportunity to mobilize and contribute to the PDP’s resurgence. With two years to the next general elections, Saraki believes there is sufficient time for the PDP to regroup and regain lost ground, even hinting at the possibility of welcoming defectors from other parties in the future.

“There is no cause for alarm,” he concluded. “Our party members should not lose focus, hope, or the determination to win. We should see the current development as a challenge to rebuild and refocus the party. Tomorrow is very bright.”