The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s main opposition party, has announced plans to engage with former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in a bid to bring him back into its fold. According to the party, the PDP was instrumental in shaping Kwankwaso’s political career and remains the platform that propelled him to prominence.
Speaking during an interview with the BBC, the acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagun, responded to Kwankwaso’s recent statement that the party is “dead” and incapable of achieving future success. Damagun dismissed the claim, asserting that the PDP remains resilient and ready to welcome back members who left the party, including Kwankwaso.
“People are entitled to their opinions, but I want to remind him of the past. When they left the PDP in 2015, they thought they had weakened it, but the party endured and remained strong. If it didn’t die then, why would anyone claim it is dead now?” Damagun questioned.
Highlighting the party’s enduring legacy, Damagun said, “Let’s not forget that the PDP remains the only party capable of winning elections if you exclude the ruling APC. Despite his criticisms, Kwankwaso himself has achieved significant political victories through the PDP.”
The acting chairman acknowledged Kwankwaso’s grievances about marginalization within the PDP but expressed optimism about reconciliation. He recalled his personal efforts to address Kwankwaso’s concerns during his initial move to leave the party, though those attempts were unsuccessful at the time.
“Kwankwaso’s frustrations are valid in some respects, but there is no better platform for him than the PDP. This party nurtured his political career and brought him to where he is today. We hope he will return to work with us to rebuild the party and confront this oppressive government,” Damagun stated.
He further emphasized the PDP’s strength, noting its long-standing history and presence across Nigeria. “Even after 26 years, the PDP remains intact under the same name, with governors and senators representing all regions. No other party, even if four of them merged, could rival our strength,” he said.
Damagun concluded by expressing the party’s readiness to reach out to Kwankwaso, despite his current frustrations. “The PDP has always been a party that welcomes back members who left in anger. When they return, they are treated equally and given opportunities to contribute. God willing, we will reach out to him soon,” he assured.
The PDP’s outreach effort is seen as part of its broader strategy to consolidate its base and strengthen its position ahead of future elections.
