It's unacceptable to think PDP might not make the 2027 ballot, says Saraki

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has cautioned that it would be a humiliating experience for the Peoples Democratic Party if it fails to participate in the 2027 general elections due to internal conflicts, stressing that such an outcome would be a setback for the party.

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Saraki made this statement on Sunday during an interview with Channels Television at the PDP's 2026 National Convention, which took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, where he also discussed efforts to stabilize the opposition party.

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The primary goal of the ongoing reconciliation efforts within the PDP, according to Saraki, is to provide a viable platform for members to contest future elections, emphasizing that the party should allow individuals who wish to run on the PDP platform in 2027 to do so.

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Saraki noted that it would be shameful if the party's internal challenges prevented it from participating in the 2027 elections, stating "Let us be able to allow people that want to contest for 2027 on PDP platform, it would be a shame if, by an own goal, one way or the other, we’re not on that ballot."

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The former Senate President described the journey to the convention as challenging, acknowledging that he and others involved in reconciliation efforts had faced criticism, saying "It’s been a long journey to get to here… in the process, one had to take a lot of attacks here and there."

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Despite the challenges, Saraki expressed optimism after observing the turnout at the convention, particularly the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission, which he believed reinforced confidence in the legitimacy of the exercise, saying "When I walked in here, saw the attendance, saw INEC here, I said… Alhamdulillah."

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Saraki attributed the enthusiasm among party members to the assurance that the PDP remains a viable platform for their political aspirations, stating "They’re excited that now they can follow their ambition, because now they have a platform and PDP can provide that platform."

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Regarding the absence of some key figures at the convention, Saraki said that reconciliation efforts would continue beyond the gathering, expressing hope that aggrieved members would return, saying "For those who are not here, I hope that the doors are not closed… I will continue to talk to them and engage with them."

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Saraki emphasized the need for party leaders to put aside their personal differences in the broader interest of members seeking elective offices, stating "The issues about we, the leaders, we should put it behind… what is more important now is the young man… the young lady… who wants the PDP platform."

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The PDP has faced persistent internal crises since the 2023 elections, including leadership disputes and defections, raising concerns about its readiness for the next general polls.