Return of PDP

The performance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the just concluded presidential and gubernatorial polls surprised many Nigerians. The party suffered defeat in the 2015 general election; it lost power at the center and some states particularly in northern Nigeria.

With the defeat and the attendant shock or confusion that trailed the party, many Nigerians thought the party would cease to exist. These assumptions were proven wrong as the party which was gasping for oxygen finally got breath of fresh air in the 2019 general election.

In the buildup to the 2015 general elections, the party was enmeshed in zoning crises; other factors that contributed to the party’s defeat were corruption and insecurity. Nigerians were fed up with worsening insecurity in the northeastern states and other parts of the country.

Adeleke: Police storm Osun PDP secretariat; It’s to prevent attack on secretariat ― Police

The menace of Boko Haram and the escalation of bombings across the country indicated total leadership failures. These negative indices shaped the 2015 election and aided APC to power.

PDP also suffered post election crises; the former acting chairman, Ahmed Makarfi, fought a fierce battle with his archrival, Madu Sheriff over the control of the party. At last, through court order, Makarfi was recognised as legitimate acting chairman of the party. The party has also succeeded in conducting rancour free convention where new leaders emerged.

Now, it is history. The questions begging for answers include how the party which was silently dying got a new life. What was the magic wand the party employed to put its house in order? The APC since the time it came on board has been making political blunders; first, the corruption it accused PDP has also been perpetuated under its watch. The APC led government was also accused of selective war against corruption.

With these flip-flops, many Nigerians realised there is no difference between APC so-called changes mantra with last PDP administration. Under APC, many state civil servants were owed salaries for months; the state governors have failed to effect the necessary changes they were voted for.

Nigerians are politically wise. They are ready to vote out non-performing government at any time.

Ibrahim Mustapha Pambegua,

Kaduna State.