The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, has indicated that the turmoil within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) extends well beyond its 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and is primarily driven by conflicts of ego among party members.
Governor Lawal, who addressed journalists during a media session on Wednesday in Zamfara, emphasised that the issue is not confined to any one individual.
Naija News reports that the opposition party has found itself in a worsening crisis following its defeat in the 2023 elections, resulting in a significant number of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly from members of the National Assembly and governors.
Among the notable recent defections is Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno. Likewise, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, Monday Onyeme, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, various commissioners, and others also transitioned to the APC in April.
In reaction, the PDP’s National Working Committee convened an emergency meeting in Abuja to address the escalating disunity and internal strife.
Commenting, however, on the lingering crisis within the PDP, Lawal said: “Everybody has their own issue; it’s not just about Atiku Abubakar; it’s beyond him.
“It’s an internal problem within the PDP, and we are making a conscious effort. I think it’s about people’s egos — everybody, no exception.”
When asked if he included himself among those contributing to the ego-driven conflict, the Zamfara State Governor said, “Yes.”
Discussing Nigeria’s electoral process in more detail, Governor Lawal expressed his hope that free and fair elections remain achievable, despite systemic challenges.
He pointed out that his position as the first PDP governor in the state serves as evidence of electoral fairness as the 2027 elections approach.
“I will say yes, because I experienced it in Zamfara State — with all the powerful people that can turn things around, with the might of the Federal Government and everything,” he said.
“Yes, there will still be a free and fair election. That was what made me elected as the governor of Zamfara State. I was the first elected PDP governor in Zamfara State. So, it was a free and fair election, and I believe it will happen. It’s a matter of time.”
Coalition Talks
Naija News reports that amid the lingering turmoil, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who has run for the presidency multiple times, has started discussions with influential political figures like Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai, aiming to establish a strong opposition coalition in preparation for the 2027 elections.
He characterised this initiative as a reaction to what he perceives as the danger of an encroaching “one-party state” under the APC.
Nevertheless, not everyone within the PDP supports the coalition initiative. Party veteran, Bode George, remains hopeful about achieving internal unity as the party gears up for its 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
However, additional challenges arose when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) dismissed the PDP’s NEC notice due to procedural issues.
In a letter dated 13 June 2025, INEC pointed out the failure to adhere to guidelines that stipulate that meeting notices must be co-signed by both the National Chairman and Secretary.
The correspondence indicated that only Acting Chairman Umar Damagum had signed the notice, leaving out National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu.
The NEC, scheduled for 30 June, is anticipated to tackle leadership conflicts and regional issues. In the meantime, the G5 faction, led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has reiterated its demand for the 2027 presidential ticket to be zoned to the South.
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