Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has downplayed concerns over the recent wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, insisting the party remains focused and unshaken.
In a statement shared via his 𝕏 handle on Thursday, April 24, 2025, titled “There is No Cause for Alarm, We’ll Reposition PDP,” Saraki reassured party faithful and supporters that the PDP is in the process of repositioning itself for the future.
Reacting to the string of high-profile exits from the party—most notably the defection of former vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa—Saraki noted that such developments should not cause panic but rather serve as a catalyst for rebirth and restructuring within the party.
“I’ve received numerous calls from concerned party members and young supporters across the country,” Saraki said. “But I believe now is the time for those who are truly committed to stay back and rebuild. It’s better to have a smaller, dedicated team than a large crowd lacking true loyalty.”
The former Kwara State governor emphasized that the party is not collapsing but evolving, urging PDP members not to be discouraged but to take the moment as an opportunity to consolidate and strengthen their base.
He cautioned against pointing fingers at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the PDP’s internal issues, stating, “It is our job as party members to rise above distractions and focus on strengthening our platform to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative.”
Saraki also expressed concern over the trend of political cross-carpeting, calling the defection of Okowa—who ran on the PDP’s presidential ticket in 2023—a disturbing sign of the weakening political values in the country.
“It is deeply unsettling to see a former vice-presidential candidate abandon the ship. Regardless of the justification, it reflects how low our political space has sunk. It’s a reminder of why we must focus on building strong institutions rather than relying on individuals,” he said.
Saraki warned against any attempt to entrench a one-party system, describing it as dangerous for a country as diverse as Nigeria.
“A thriving democracy needs a vibrant opposition. The idea of eliminating alternatives and leaving the people without choices is not only undemocratic, it is perilous for a nation as complex and multi-dimensional as ours,” he warned.
Despite the upheavals in Delta State, Saraki remains optimistic about PDP’s chances in future elections, stating that even with a reduced number of governors, the party is still well-positioned for electoral victory.
“This is a time for introspection and realignment. Let us not lose hope. The future remains promising if we stay the course,” he concluded.