Former President Goodluck Jonathan has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains alive, strong and resilient, dismissing speculations suggesting that the party is on the verge of collapse.
Jonathan reaffirmed that the PDP remains a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s democracy, noting that it is the only surviving original political party since the country’s return to civil rule in 1999.
The former President made the remarks while receiving members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, led by the National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, during a high-level consultative meeting held at his private office in Abuja on Tuesday evening.
The meeting focused on the party’s reconciliation process, internal cohesion and strategic repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Jonathan noted that the PDP possesses the historical resilience and institutional depth required to overcome its present internal challenges, describing the party as more than a political platform but a national institution that has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
“The PDP, being the only surviving original political party since 1998, has been a critical contributor to our democracy since 1999. I have been a beneficiary of this party, which gave me the opportunity to serve as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice President and President”, Jonathan said.
He added that he remains grateful to the party and would continue to contribute to its growth and stability, stressing that he feels deeply indebted to the PDP for the opportunities it afforded him in public service.
The former President urged the party’s leadership to prioritise national interest, unity and institutional development above personal ambitions, noting that strong and well-organised political parties are essential for democratic stability and national progress.
Earlier, Dr Turaki thanked Jonathan for his fatherly counsel, guidance and enduring loyalty to the PDP. He assured the former President that the current leadership is committed to a comprehensive “Rebirth Agenda” aimed at rebuilding, reconciling and strengthening the party.
According to Turaki, the NWC is engaging aggrieved members and critical stakeholders across the country to foster unity and reposition the PDP as a credible alternative capable of returning power to the people.
“We came to seek your guidance and to brief you on the prospects and challenges before the party. Our goal is to reposition the PDP as the party of the majority of Nigerians and restore public confidence in its leadership”, he said.
The members of the delegation included former Niger State Governor, Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu; Prof. Jerry Gana; former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi (retd.); Hajiya Zainab Maina; Chief Mike Oghiadome; former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN, as well as other members of the National Working Committee.
