‘Cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy,’ PDP govs celebrate party at 27

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum praised the party on Sunday as it marked its 27th anniversary, saying that it remains the strength and cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy.

The party was founded on August 31, 1998 and led the country uninterrupted for 16 years until 2015.

The governors noted that during the period, the party produced three Presidents -Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007), the late Umar Musa Yar’Adua (2007–2010), and Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015) before the All Progressives Congress APC edged it out of power at the federal level, though it continued to retain key states in successive elections since 2015.

The Director-General of the forum, Dr Emmanuel Agbo, in a statement he signed on behalf of the Chairman of the body and the Governor of the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, recalled how the PDP’s idea of rotating the presidency between the North and South had not only unified the country but had also been copied as model by other political parties over the years.

Although it acknowledged that the journey had some rough edges, the party stated that the worst days were over as it had scheduled its next National Elective Convention in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on November 15.

The forum commended party supporters and particularly the leadership for their commitment, which contributed to the survival of the PDP to date.

The forum wrote, “Since its formation on 31st August 1998, the PDP has remained a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic evolution, shaping the political landscape with resilience to national unity.

“Founded during Nigeria’s transition from military rule to democracy, the PDP emerged as a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians yearning for civilian governance, economic reform, and social justice.

“The party’s early triumph in the 1999 general elections marked the beginning of a new democratic era, with former President Olusegun Obasanjo at the helm, setting the tone for progressive leadership and institutional rebuilding.

“It governed Nigeria with vision for 16 consecutive years, producing three presidents and overseeing significant reforms in telecommunications, banking, education, healthcare, and infrastructure which rebirthed economic stability and highly impacted workers’ welfare, created employment, boosted investments and rejigged entrepreneurship with a resultant poverty reduction.

“The PDP’s commitment to rotating leadership between the North and South helped foster national cohesion and inclusivity.”

On expectations of the future and other plans to deepen democratic governance, the governors expressed the readiness to ensure that the PDP remains a shining example.

The forum went on, “Two decades later, and even in opposition, the PDP has remained a vibrant force delivering good governance, holding government accountable and championing the rights of citizens.

“Its enduring presence in the National Assembly and across state governments is a testament to its deep-rooted connection with the Nigerian people and its unwavering belief in democratic ideals.

“On a note of reflection, the PDP has faced formidable challenges—internal divisions, electoral setbacks, and shifting political tides.

“Yet, through it all, the party has demonstrated remarkable tenacity by engineering social reconciliation within its fold and strongly called for decisive action on the politically-induced insecurity monster that has ravaged the peace of the country and its innocent citizens.

“As the PDP celebrates 27 years of existence, may this milestone serve as a reminder of the party’s legacy and a call to renew its commitment to good governance, transparency, and service to the nation.

“The journey ahead is as important as the path already travelled, and Nigerians look forward to a PDP that continues to evolve, inspire, and lead with integrity.”

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