The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West says it is hopeful that former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and other aggrieved members will return after its National Convention.
The PDP National Convention is scheduled to hold on Nov. 15 and Nov. 16 in Ibadan.
Alhaji Kamorudeen Ajisafe, the South-West Zonal Chairman of the party, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Lagos.
Ajisafe said the party remained open to reconciliation and expected all estranged members to reunite with the PDP after the convention.
“Definitely, we want them back. We are waiting for the convention. Let us stop the shenanigans of a few members disturbing the peace of our party,” he said.
He added that the PDP leadership believed Atiku and other prominent leaders who left the party would soon return.
“If they want to come back, why not? We are ready to accept them. We are not against them returning. Let them come back,” he said.
According to him, the only way the opposition can make any meaningful impact in the 2027 general elections is by uniting as one strong party.
“That is what Nigerians will see as a serious opposition. When the APC wanted to dislodge the PDP in 2014, they came together.
“We must also make sacrifices and show selflessness,” Ajisafe said.
He, however, maintained that power should remain in the southern part of the country in 2027 to complete the region’s two-term tenure.
Ajisafe urged Atiku Abubakar to shelve his 2027 presidential ambition in the interest of fairness, equity and justice.
“By 2031, by the grace of God, you will not see some of us supporting a southerner to be President again.
“But for now, Southerners should be allowed to complete their eight years,” Ajisafe said.
He expressed confidence that the forthcoming convention would reposition the PDP ahead of future elections. (
