PDP At 27, Party Reflects On Legacy And Future

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marked its 27th anniversary on Sunday with its governors describing the party as a major pillar of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

In a statement by the PDP Governors’ Forum chaired by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, the party was praised for shaping Nigeria’s politics since its formation on August 31, 1998. The governors said the PDP’s principle of rotating leadership between the North and South has played an important role in strengthening national unity and inclusiveness.

The party governed Nigeria for 16 years, producing three presidents: Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan. During its years in power, the PDP oversaw reforms in banking, telecommunications, education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which the governors said boosted economic growth, created jobs, and improved workers’ welfare.

Although the party lost power to the All Progressives Congress in 2015, it has remained a strong opposition force. Today, the PDP controls nine states and holds a presence in the National Assembly, maintaining its relevance in national politics.

The party recently emerged from a long period of internal crisis and is preparing for its National Elective Convention scheduled for November in Ibadan. The governors said the convention would further strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

Reflecting on its journey, the Forum noted that the PDP was founded during Nigeria’s transition from military to civilian rule, becoming a symbol of hope for citizens who wanted democracy and social justice. They acknowledged that the party has faced challenges such as divisions and electoral losses but has managed to survive with resilience and reconciliation.

As the PDP looks to the future, its governors urged the party to remain committed to good governance, accountability, and transparency, assuring Nigerians that the party would continue to evolve and provide leadership with integrity.