PDP pushes digital membership drive in Sokoto

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State on Wednesday intensified efforts to expand its membership base through a digital registration drive, even as questions emerged over the absence of party executives at the exercise.

The e-registration and sensitisation programme, held at Dankeni Guest House, brought together stakeholders and supporters to kick-start a technology-driven membership process aimed at improving transparency and credibility within the party.

Organisers said the initiative is part of a broader nationwide strategy to modernise party records and curb manipulation associated with manual registration systems.

A journalist at the event, however, raised concerns about the non-appearance of party executives, prompting reactions from key stakeholders.

Responding, former Commissioner for Water Resources, Dahiru Yusuf Yabo, said the situation was linked to recent political shifts in the state.

“The leadership that produced the current executives has moved to another platform but asked them to remain in PDP while staying away from its activities. That is why they are not here,” he explained.

Despite the development, Yabo stressed that the PDP remains strong and focused.

“The PDP is still a formidable party. Anyone who says it is dead is mistaken. We are mobilising and repositioning,” he said.

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He also addressed concerns about internal dynamics at the national level, particularly involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

“Wike remains a PDP member. Political alliances are not new, but what matters is building the party,” he added.

Also speaking, a former aide to ex-governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Hayatu Tafida, said the electronic registration system offers stronger safeguards against identity fraud.

“This system captures full details of members, making it impossible for anyone to duplicate or misuse another person’s information,” he said.

He noted that the exercise complements existing manual records at ward and local government levels.

“It is continuous. After registering electronically, your details are still documented at the ward for proper record-keeping,” he added.

Another stakeholder, Hajia Hadiza Abubakar, said the sensitisation component was critical to ensuring inclusivity, particularly for grassroots members unfamiliar with digital tools.

“We are training facilitators who will go back to their communities and help others register. The goal is to reach as many people as possible,” she said.

She dismissed suggestions that the party is divided or unprepared for elections.

“We don’t have factions. PDP is one, with a recognised national leadership. We are fully ready and will present candidates,” she stated.

The PDP’s renewed membership push comes as the party seeks to rebuild and strengthen its structure ahead of future elections, amid shifting political alliances and defections in key states like Sokoto.

When contacted to find out why the state executive members of the party were not involved, the party’s spokesman in the state, Hassan Sanyinnawal, said the party is not ready to exchange words with the organisers.