PDP’s Strength as Nigeria’s Leading Opposition Party – Umar Damagum

The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, on Tuesday reaffirmed the party’s position as Nigeria’s strongest opposition force. In an interview with BBC Hausa Service, Damagum emphasized that no coalition of opposition parties could unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections without the PDP’s involvement.

Damagum’s comments came in response to Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in 2023, who dismissed the possibility of aligning with the PDP or Labour Party in future elections. Damagum highlighted that the Peoples Democratic Party has endured significant challenges yet remains the only opposition party consistently winning governorship elections across Nigeria. “People are entitled to their opinions, but I want to remind Kwankwaso of the past. When they left the Peoples Democratic Party in 2015, if the party didn’t die back then, I don’t see why anyone would claim it is dead now,” he said.

Kwankwaso’s Political Roots in Peoples Democratic Party

Damagum also reminded Kwankwaso of his political beginnings, asserting that the Peoples Democratic Party was instrumental in grooming him into a political figure of national relevance. He expressed hope that Kwankwaso would return to the Peoples Democratic Party to rebuild the party and collectively challenge what he described as an “oppressive government.”

“The PDP nurtured his political career and brought him to where he is today,” Damagum said. “There is no party better than the PDP for Kwankwaso. Even if four parties merge without the PDP, they cannot win an election. We’ve seen this play out repeatedly. Where are those parties now?” he asked, pointing to the PDP’s track record as a stabilizing political force in Nigeria.

PDP’s Influence and Electoral Achievements

Highlighting the PDP’s national structure and influence, Damagum argued that the party has maintained its identity and relevance for over two decades. He noted that the PDP continues to produce governors and lawmakers across the country despite not being in power at the federal level.

“The PDP is the only party that has consistently won elections without being in power,” Damagum remarked. He dismissed claims of the party’s decline, emphasizing its ability to withstand internal and external challenges. According to Damagum, the PDP’s resilience and widespread presence make it the cornerstone of any serious opposition effort in Nigeria.

Addressing Internal Challenges and Looking Ahead

Acknowledging past challenges within the PDP, Damagum admitted that the party had faced significant hurdles, particularly during the period Kwankwaso and others departed. “I admit that some of his claims about the challenges we faced back then are valid. As the Deputy National Chairman (North) at the time, my powers were limited, but we tried to resolve the issues. Unfortunately, those efforts fell short,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Damagum maintained that the PDP’s foundation remains strong, and he called on aggrieved members to return to the fold. “The facts speak for themselves. For over two decades, the PDP has remained steadfast, producing governors and lawmakers in every part of the country. The future of Nigeria’s democracy lies with the PDP, and we are ready to lead the charge for a better Nigeria,” he concluded.

Social Media Reactions to Peoples Democratic Party’s Leadership

The Peoples Democratic Party’s leadership and internal challenges have sparked debates across social media platforms. While Damagum’s comments received support from some quarters, critics highlighted the party’s internal divisions and questioned its preparedness for future elections.

For instance, a user with the handle @ogbeniakin tweeted, “A pack of clowns! A party that has an evil fifth columnist working openly and unashamedly against its interests… is most certainly not one to be taken seriously.” Similarly, @ifeanyichukwu argued that the PDP is “living in denial,” while @inemesit stated, “The PDP will never get power again… they enjoyed while Nigerians suffered under Buhari.”

Despite these criticisms, others offered constructive advice. @hart suggested, “This would have been a perfect time to put their ‘structure’ in order, get rid of all in-house moles and be a proper opposition.”

Internal Factions and the Path Forward

The PDP’s internal discord, particularly the rivalry between the factions led by Governor Nyesom Wike and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, remains a major concern. Critics argue that these divisions weaken the party’s ability to function as a cohesive opposition.

Damagum acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to regroup and reclaim its position. “I admit that some of his [Kwankwaso’s] claims about the challenges we faced back then are valid. As the Deputy National Chairman (North) at the time, my powers were limited, but we tried to resolve the issues,” he explained.

As the 2027 elections approach, political analysts suggest that the Peoples Democratic Party must prioritize internal reconciliation, strengthen its structures, and articulate a clear vision to win back the trust of Nigerians. Damagum’s comments underscore the party’s commitment to rebuilding and maintaining its relevance in the nation’s political landscape.