The Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, speaking on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senate Caucus, has assured Nigerians that the PDP remains strong and vibrant despite recent challenges, defections, and internal conflicts.
Addressing the Senate correspondents at the national assembly complex on tuesday after a series of meetings by the caucus, Senator Moro emphasized that the party is far from collapse and is actively preparing for a major political resurgence.
“Contrary to the belief that the PDP is in shreds and on the verge of collapse, the party remains very, very strong and will continue to grow stronger,” he said, representing the position of the PDP Senate Caucus.
The caucus acknowledged that internal crises are not unique to the PDP, pointing out that other major parties such as the APC, Labour Party, and NNPP are also grappling with internal strife. Moro, on behalf of the caucus, stressed that the PDP is taking strategic steps to address its own issues.
“We are lining up a series of reconciliation activities, conflict resolution efforts, and the hosting of zonal congresses leading up to a national convention. These steps will culminate in the emergence of new leadership that will re-energize the party,” he stated.
Representing the Senate PDP Caucus, Senator Moro reaffirmed the importance of a vibrant opposition in a functioning democracy and cautioned against the dangers of one-party dominance.
“The beauty of democracy is in the existence of a strong opposition to keep the ruling party in check. Celebrating the emasculation of other parties is not healthy for democracy,” he said.
The caucus, through Senator Moro, also expressed its openness to coalition politics: “The PDP is not averse to the idea and ideals of coalition. Our umbrella is big enough to accommodate all who are desirous of a united front.”
On the issue of the 2023 presidential election and future electoral strategies, Moro, speaking for the caucus, addressed rumors of individual ambition overshadowing collective party interests.
“Our presidential candidate extending an olive branch to Labour Party’s candidate for 2027 is not about personal ambition. As an interested participant in the political process, he has the right to seek strong alliances to win elections,” he explained.
Responding to claims that the PDP is weak or irrelevant, Senator Moro declared on behalf of the caucus: “I’m a PDP senator, elected by Nigerians. Behind me are other senators, who are former governors, PDP members are standing strong. That doesn’t look like a party that is dead.”
While acknowledging the recent defections from the PDP, he insisted they are temporary setbacks. “We are very optimistic. The committee headed by Senator David Mark has the capacity to address all contending issues. We are confident that before 2026, the PDP will be as competitive as it has ever been,” Moro assured.
He further stressed the enduring loyalty of grassroots PDP members across Nigeria. “The ordinary party member values the PDP. There is no amount of intimidation or persuasion that can sway grassroots politicians from the party,” Moro emphasized, speaking for the caucus.
On concerns about funding, Senator Moro, again speaking for the PDP Senate Caucus, dismissed any fears about financial sustainability: “We pay our dues. My colleagues here pay dues. We’re not depending on governors. And if necessary, we will raise dues. There are enough committed members to sustain the party.”
The PDP Senate Caucus, through Senator Abba Moro, urged Nigerians to be patient and watch as the party undergoes internal reforms and strategic reorganization. The caucus reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the PDP emerges as a stronger and more competitive political force ahead of future elections.