Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has indicated that the turmoil affecting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) extends well beyond its 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and is primarily rooted in conflicts of ego among party members.
Governor Lawal, who addressed journalists during a media session on Wednesday in Zamfara, emphasized that the issue is not confined to any one individual.
“Everyone has their own concerns; it’s not solely about Atiku Abubakar; it transcends him,” he remarked.
“This is an internal issue within the PDP, and we are making a deliberate effort to address it. I believe it revolves around personal egos — everyone, without exception.”
When questioned if he considered himself among those fueling the ego-driven discord, Lawal replied, “Yes.”
Further discussing Nigeria’s electoral process, Governor Lawal conveyed his belief that free and fair elections are achievable despite existing systemic obstacles.
He pointed out that his election as the first PDP governor in the state serves as evidence of electoral integrity as the 2027 elections approach.
“I would affirm this, as I witnessed it in Zamfara State — despite the influence of powerful individuals who can alter outcomes, along with the authority of the Federal Government and all that entails,” he stated.
“Indeed, there will still be a free and fair election. That was the basis for my election as the governor of Zamfara State. I was the first elected PDP governor in Zamfara State. Therefore, it was a free and fair election, and I am confident it will occur again. It is merely a matter of time.”
The PDP has found itself in a worsening crisis following its defeat in the 2023 elections, leading to a surge of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), especially among National Assembly members and governors.
Among the notable recent defections is Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno. Likewise, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, Monday Onyeme, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, commissioners, and others also transitioned to the APC in April.
In response, the National Working Committee of the PDP convened an emergency meeting in Abuja to address the escalating disunity and internal strife.
Amidst the turmoil, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar — who has run for the presidency six times — has initiated discussions with influential political figures such as Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai, aiming to establish a strong opposition coalition in preparation for the 2027 elections.
He characterized this initiative as a reaction to what he perceives as the encroaching threat of a “one-party state” under the APC.
Nevertheless, not everyone within the PDP supports the coalition initiative. Party veteran, Bode George, remains hopeful about achieving internal reconciliation as the party gears up for its 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
However, additional complications arose when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rejected the PDP’s NEC notice due to procedural issues.
In a letter dated 13 June 2025, INEC pointed out non-compliance with regulations that stipulate that meeting notices must be co-signed by both the National Chairman and Secretary.
The correspondence indicated that only Acting Chairman Umar Damagum had signed the notice, neglecting to include National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu.
The NEC, scheduled for 30 June, is anticipated to tackle leadership conflicts and zonal issues. In the meantime, the G5 faction, led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has reiterated its demand for the 2027 presidential ticket to be zoned to the South.
