Nigeria Times

Former Kogi West senator, Dino Melaye, has accused three key figures within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of irreversibly damaging the party. In a statement posted on his X account, Melaye pointed fingers at PDP National Chairman Iliya Damagum, National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, and Organizing Secretary Umar Bature for their roles in what he described as the downfall of the party.

Melaye also suggested that the party has been commercialized and privatized, stating, “End of the road for PDP as Damagum, Bature, and Anyanwu irredeemably destroyed the party. We will talk about the commercialization and privatization of PDP. PDP is now once upon a time.”

Naija News reports that there are indications the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) may sanction Damagum and Anyanwu over an alleged letter sent to the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt, which was perceived as an anti-party move. This has led to calls for disciplinary action from some members of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

However, Damagum has dismissed these calls, asserting that he will not be intimidated into resigning and claiming that the controversy only increases his popularity. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committees, the acting chairman criticized those spreading misinformation about the NWC’s operations.

Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has stated that former President Goodluck Jonathan stands a strong chance of winning the 2027 presidential election if he runs under the party’s banner. Abdullahi emphasized that the PDP’s primary concern is winning elections and controlling the central government to drive national development, rather than strictly adhering to zoning arrangements.

He criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for exacerbating security challenges in Nigeria, contrasting this with the period of Jonathan’s presidency. Abdullahi noted that Jonathan has remained a respected figure, even among members of the APC, since leaving office in 2015.

Abdullahi highlighted Jonathan’s democratic principles, particularly his concession of defeat in the 2015 election before all votes were counted, as evidence of his suitability to lead Nigeria again. He argued that Jonathan’s open-mindedness and ability to manage Nigeria’s diverse and complex society make him a strong candidate for 2027.

Abdullahi’s comments reflect the PDP’s belief that Jonathan could address the loss of hope and confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process, given his previous tenure and continued influence. He also pointed out that Jonathan allowed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to operate freely, a practice he believes contrasts with the approach taken by subsequent administrations.

The PDP deputy spokesman also underscored the significant security challenges that have emerged under the APC, asserting that the party has failed to address these issues despite previously using Boko Haram as a major point of criticism against Jonathan’s administration. Abdullahi concluded by suggesting that Jonathan is deserving of another opportunity to lead Nigeria, given his past contributions and the ongoing recognition of his leadership qualities across the political spectrum.

Several northern political leaders and groups have voiced growing dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing concerns about neglecting northern interests and marginalizing the politicians who supported his rise to power.

Critics argue that Tinubu has favored the Yoruba ethnic group in key government appointments, leaving northern representation sidelined. They highlight the concentration of crucial positions, such as the Petroleum Minister, Finance Minister, and Chief Justice of Nigeria, among the Yoruba, a situation they claim is unprecedented in Nigeria’s history.

The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), a prominent socio-political group, has expressed regret over supporting Tinubu in the 2023 elections. Professor Usman Yusuf, a member of NEF, criticized Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as leading to “deception, destitution, and hopelessness” in the North. He lamented the dire economic conditions and the widespread disillusionment among the northern populace.

The North-East Governors’ Forum has also raised concerns, particularly about the region’s neglect in infrastructure development and electricity provision. Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State pointed out the lack of road and rail connections between the South-East and North-East as a major grievance.

Recent gatherings of northern political figures, including former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and NNPP’s Rabiu Kwankwaso, along with visits by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to former President Muhammadu Buhari, have fueled speculation about a potential northern realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

While Atiku’s visit was officially described as a Sallah homage, many analysts believe it signals strategic positioning for the next presidential race. The northern political establishment appears increasingly inclined to reconsider its support for Tinubu in 2027.