By Adesakin Adefemi
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former senator representing Sokoto East, Abubakar Gada, has assured party members that recent political developments in the state will not weaken the party’s structure or electoral strength.
Gada made the statement on Thursday, urging loyal PDP members and supporters in Sokoto State to remain calm, united, and committed to the party’s ideals.
His remarks came in the wake of the defection of former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal from the PDP to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that has generated widespread reactions across the state’s political landscape.
According to Gada, the defection will not diminish the PDP’s strong grassroots presence in the state or nationwide.
“The PDP remains the most organised and people-oriented political party in the country, with strong grassroots structures across all the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.
Gada emphasised that the party’s strength lies in the collective commitment of its members, leaders, and supporters who have continued to uphold the PDP through different political seasons.
While acknowledging that politics is dynamic and individuals are free to make personal choices, Gada maintained that the PDP as an institution remains resilient and deeply rooted in the aspirations of Nigerians. He noted that the party has weathered numerous political challenges in the past and always emerged stronger.
Gada disclosed that the national leadership of the party has already initiated measures to strengthen internal unity and consolidate party structures across the country.
“I am pleased to inform our members that consultations and reconciliation efforts are ongoing among party stakeholders to ensure that concerns are addressed and the party continues to move forward with renewed focus and unity,” he stated.
The former senator urged party members to remain focused, avoid actions capable of creating division, and continue mobilising support for the party at all levels. “Together, we will strengthen our party, deepen our unity, and continue to work towards the progress and development of Sokoto State,” he said.
Political observers note that the recent wave of defections in the state could reshape alignments ahead of future elections, even as the PDP leadership insists that its structures remain intact. The defection of Tambuwal, a prominent politician in the state, is seen as a significant blow to the PDP, but Gada’s statement suggests that the party is determined to move forward.
The PDP has been facing challenges in Sokoto State, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been gaining ground. However, Gada’s statement is expected to boost the morale of PDP members and supporters in the state.
The situation in Sokoto State is being closely watched by political analysts, who are predicting a tough battle ahead for the PDP. Meanwhile, the party’s leadership is working to stem the tide of defections and strengthen its structures in the state.
