2027: Makarfi, Lamido hold discussion to restore cohesion in PDP
Ahmed Makarfi, former governor of Kaduna, and Sule Lamido, ex-governor of Jigawa, met in Kaduna on Tuesday to discuss ways of healing divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general election.
The two former governors told journalists at the end of the meeting that the engagement was part of sustained efforts to restore cohesion within the opposition party.
Makarfi, who previously served as PDP national caretaker chairman and board of trustees (BoT) secretary, said the discussion aligned with years of quiet consultations aimed at strengthening the party.
He described the current crisis in the PDP as a moment that demands “sober reflection, forgiveness, and a willingness among members to embrace one another.”
“This is not the time to be angry. It is time to put on our thinking caps and ensure that we come out of the situation the party is in,” Makarfi said.
He said the meeting was not driven by personal ambitions but by the broader interest of the party and members planning to seek elective offices in 2027.
Makarfi added that politics is dynamic, noting that leaders must continually evaluate national realities to determine what best serves democracy, the country, and the PDP.
Lamido said he and Makarfi have for years been exchanging views on the state of the nation and the fortunes of the PDP.
He acknowledged that the party, like any human institution, faces challenges but insisted that commitment to democracy, the nation, and the PDP must override personal grievances.
Lamido highlighted the deteriorating state of the nation, including worsening security, economic hardship, corruption, and the weakening of multi-party democracy, as issues that require a revitalised and united PDP.
He said the consultations among party leaders are centred on resolving internal disputes, including pending litigations, and building a cohesive political front.
“It is not about ego or pride. It is about national sacrifice. We must put the party and the country first,” Lamido said.
