Fresh cracks have emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, has dismissed the planned national convention being pushed by a faction linked to Nyesom Wike.
Speaking during an interview, Lamido downplayed the influence of Wike and Taminu Turaki within the party, insisting that their roles in the PDP’s formation and growth were not significant.
He stressed that the PDP is a national institution founded in 1998 by prominent Nigerian political figures, and should not be reduced to the ambitions of individuals or factions.
“A party like PDP is a Nigerian project,” Lamido said, referencing founding figures such as Alex Ekwueme, Solomon Lar, Adamu Ciroma, and Jerry Gana, among others who played key roles in its establishment.
He noted that these leaders came together during the military era to build a broad-based political platform that transcended ideologies and personal interests, describing the PDP as a product of national consensus.
Clarifying his position, Lamido said he is not aligned with any faction, including Wike’s camp, but is primarily concerned about restoring unity within the party.
“I am not for Wike, I am for PDP,” he stated, warning that ongoing internal conflicts are weakening the opposition and inadvertently strengthening the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to him, persistent infighting, insults, and divisions within the PDP are undermining its chances ahead of future elections, while benefiting rivals, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Lamido urged party stakeholders to shift focus from personal rivalries to rebuilding the PDP’s strength and unity, emphasising that cohesion remains critical to electoral success.
“The more we fight, the weaker we become,” he warned.
