Media Aide, LAWAL AKANBI SHARAFADEEN Explains
The crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may be subsiding, following the recent defection of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and other prominent party members. The party is now reportedly enjoying a new lease of life and leadership under the Chairman of the National Reconciliation Committee of the PDP, Dr. Bukola Saraki, who has been actively working to strengthen the party despite the departures of several key figures.
There has been considerable speculation about the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who remains in the PDP. Many believe that his presence in the party could hinder its progress. However, Dr. Bukola Saraki is undeterred by this and focuses on building a stronger PDP. He aims to engage other key members now that the party has decided to zone the presidential candidacy to the South.
Despite concerns that Wike may continue to disrupt the party’s efforts, City People spoke to Lawal Akanbi Sharafadeen, a Media aide to Dr. Saraki, to understand how they plan to collaborate with both Wike and Gov. Makinde to advance the party’s agenda.
What is the role of Bukola Saraki in the new PDP arrangement we asked him?
“With figures like Atiku having left the party, Saraki, the former Governor of Kwara State and former Senate President, has been the most visible member actively working to coordinate other stakeholders over the past few months.
When considering his role at the national level, it is important to recognize the ongoing efforts within the PDP to come together and reposition the party. Recently, Saraki was appointed as the chairman of a strategy committee whose purpose is to address the challenges that have eroded public confidence in the PDP, including leadership disputes.
From the inception of this committee, Saraki has engaged with affected stakeholders, meeting with governors and the leadership of INEC to understand what is needed from an impartial perspective. They have made progress in resolving various issues within the party, leading to the reversion of some key figures to their rightful positions, such as the party’s secretary and acting national chairman. Gradually, a sense of peace is returning to the PDP, and with this peace and unity, the party can regain its strength.
However, some individuals may choose to leave regardless of these developments due to their personal agendas. Many of these people are either trying to cling to relevance or have been rejected at the grassroots level. While there are those who see themselves as the party’s only viable candidates, a true democracy should maintain a level playing field for all members. It is essential for the PDP to return to its original guiding principles and provide a credible opposition to the current governing party, as many indicators suggest that the APC has failed the country. The focus should be on creating an effective alternative so that citizens can find hope in the opposition when they lose faith in the ruling party”.
Can Dr. Saraki work with Wike in PDP?
“It is important to acknowledge the grievances that Wike has expressed. He was treated unfairly, and it is natural for him to voice his dissatisfaction. However, I am confident that there will be a resolution between them at the appropriate time. Wike is a politician who prioritizes the best interests of his country, and once the PDP has fully repositioned itself, I believe the right things will be done.
As for how Saraki, Wike, and Governor Makinde will work together to produce the PDP’s presidential flag bearer, I believe that if all parties come to the table and propose solutions, unity can be restored, making it possible for them to collaborate effectively.
While some have suggested that Governor Makinde is poised to be the presidential candidate for the PDP, concrete discussions have yet to take place regarding who will ultimately emerge as the flag bearer. The convention is expected to be held in Ibadan, Oyo State, but until a level playing field is established for all candidates, nothing definitive can be said”.
Is Dr. Saraki seeking immediate personal gains from the PDP?
“Many speculate that he plans to run on the party’s platform. However, we should consider the history of Dr. Bukola Saraki’s participation in national politics. Throughout more than two decades of active involvement, his actions have rarely been self-serving. For instance, when he stood for the fuel subsidy at the National Assembly, it was not for personal gain. His track record suggests that his focus has consistently been on broader issues rather than individual aspirations”.
“People are still uncertain about how Dr. Bukola will align with Wike in the PDP. While the concern is valid, I want to provide an insider perspective as someone who has a liberal mindset. Instead of solely focusing on Wike’s perspective, let’s analyze the entire situation more comprehensively. We should recognize Soraki’s unique abilities. Over the years, he has proven to be a power broker, a team player, and a skilled leader”.
“At the onset of this crisis, the party was in disarray until Dr. Bukola was appointed as the Chairman of the Reconciliation and Strategy Committee. In just a week or two, he achieved what many pundits deemed impossible. Issues that had long troubled the party, where factions claimed they could never work together, were resolved under his leadership”.
“In a matter of weeks, he managed to bring everyone back to the negotiation table, even in situations where they couldn’t communicate previously. Despite long-standing tensions since the last election, Bukola took charge and made significant progress in a very short time”.
But there are still people who say Wike won’t work with Saraki in PDP! Is that true?
“Concerns about Wike’s position might seem valid to those who overlook Bukola’s capability to unite diverse factions within the party. If we assess the situation without bias, it becomes evident that Bukola is highly capable. He is respected and listened to by everyone in the PDP, whether they are current or former governors, NGO leaders, or assembly presidents”.
“Currently, there’s no one in the PDP who would refuse to work with him. Bukola has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among party members”.
“I can confidently say that the PDP today is in a stronger position than it was before Bukola assumed the role of Chairman of the Reconciliation and Strategy Committee. We need to have faith in his abilities. He has successfully navigated challenges in the past, and I believe he will continue to do so”.
“When the time comes to tackle any issue, I am confident they will overcome them successfully and without harm. Many people in this country desire a united opposition that can effectively challenge the current administration, which has led Nigeria into its current state”.
“Ultimately, I urge everyone to trust in Bukola’s capability to perform his magic. His dedication to uniting the PDP is clear, and all leaders within the party must recognize that division is not an option if we aim to improve our country’s situation”.
“Consider Bukola’s commitment to the PDP; everyone has made mistakes. He had reservations against certain individuals who have left, and many others who previously strayed have come back to the party and restored the status quo. Therefore, there is no reason for Wike not to reintegrate fully into the PDP.
That’s my perspective, and I am optimistic that in the coming weeks, we will witness significant progress”.
