PDP Acting Chair Damagum Predicts Collapse of Opposition Coalition Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has confidently predicted the collapse of the recently formed opposition coalition, insisting that the PDP remains the only credible alternative for Nigerians ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Damagum made the remarks on Thursday during the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja. The meeting, attended by key party stakeholders, focused on internal party cohesion and strategy in the face of emerging political realignments. “This political experiment is nothing to lose sleep over,” Damagum declared, referring to the ADC-led opposition coalition, which he believes lacks structure and staying power.

On July 1, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was adopted as the coalition platform for opposition leaders—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and publisher Dele Momodu—seeking to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027. However, Damagum claimed many politicians who initially joined the movement have either quietly returned to the PDP or denied ever leaving.

Defections Rock Coalition: ‘They Never Left,’ Says PDP

In his speech, Damagum highlighted that several former PDP members who flirted with the ADC-led coalition are already retracing their steps. “Many who jumped on the coalition bandwagon have already returned to our fold,” he said. “Some even claim they never left and merely attended a meeting; we accept their confessions without prejudice.”

Damagum further asserted that the defections weren’t limited to PDP members alone, revealing that individuals from other political parties who briefly aligned with the coalition had also withdrawn. “Their swift return is proof of this,” he said. “They have realised that the venture is ill-fated.”

He used the opportunity to reaffirm the PDP’s political strength, saying, “The Peoples Democratic Party remains the only party not only poised and ready to take back power, but also the only party with the structure, national acceptability, and legacy capable of bearing the weight of this great national undertaking.” The acting chairman concluded the subject by expressing optimism over the coalition’s impending disintegration, saying the party “looks forward to the total dismantling of this ill-fated coalition.”

Damagum Commends Party Stakeholders, Lauds State Chairmen

In a gesture of unity and appreciation, Damagum praised key PDP leaders for their loyalty during what he called “critical times.” He particularly commended the contributions of state party chairpersons, hailing them as the “first line of defence” in the PDP’s democratic campaign.

“It is from your leadership that our grassroots structures are nurtured and sustained,” he said. “Your resilience, especially in states where we are in opposition, is commendable. You are comrades in the trenches of democracy.”

The acting chairman acknowledged the burden borne by the chairpersons, stating that their steadfastness was instrumental in maintaining the PDP’s relevance nationwide. He reiterated the party’s commitment to supporting its grassroots networks as a foundation for future electoral victories.

PDP Legislators Praised for Their Role in Governance

Turning his attention to lawmakers, Damagum expressed gratitude to the Minority Leaders in both chambers of the National Assembly and other PDP legislators. He described them as guardians of democratic values and defenders of the Nigerian people against unpopular government policies.

“Because of your steadfastness,” he said, “when we eventually reclaim the presidency, the next PDP president will not be a political orphan left to the mercy of hostile forces.”

He further emphasized that PDP lawmakers not only win elections but also shape governance. “Through your actions, anti-people policies are challenged and checked,” Damagum noted. “You serve as role models to our state assembly members, who themselves are doing tremendous work delivering the dividends of representative democracy.”

Governors: The Party’s Backbone and Strategic Leaders

Concluding his address, Damagum reserved special praise for the PDP governors, describing them as the “backbone” and “pride” of the party. He credited their leadership and sacrifices for the party’s sustained survival and growing strength.

“You remain the backbone of this party, and without your leadership and sacrifice, we would be left exposed,” he said. “We are indeed fortunate to have you.”

The speech, which was well received by the NEC members, reinforced the PDP’s belief in its internal strength and ability to navigate Nigeria’s evolving political terrain. As opposition coalitions take shape ahead of 2027, the PDP’s leadership appears resolved to maintain unity and reclaim power through strategic planning, grassroots mobilisation, and political resilience