The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised alarm over what it described as the misuse of former Senate President Bukola Saraki’s name by members of the newly formed political coalition in a bid to poach its supporters.
In a statement issued in Ilorin and signed by the party’s State Secretary, Abdulrahman Abdullahi Kayode, the PDP alleged that some individuals and political actors linked to the coalition were falsely claiming affiliation with Saraki in order to attract PDP loyalists into the fold.
The party distanced itself and its leader from the emerging coalition, said to be championed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and cautioned members to remain steadfast.
“We urge our members and supporters across the state to remain vigilant and not be deceived by the antics of stranded and unpopular politicians who, having deserted our party, are now seeking relevance by falsely using the name of our leader, Dr. Bukola Saraki, to gain support for their new political adventure,” the statement said.
The PDP further asserted that many of those currently behind the coalition played no significant role during the September 2024 local government elections, yet the party emerged victorious—a development it said affirmed its strong grassroots support despite alleged electoral irregularities.
Warning the coalition promoters to desist from using Saraki’s name to gain credibility, the party said, “If they are truly confident in their popularity and acceptance among the people, they should campaign based on their own track records and not hide behind the name and legacy of our leader.”
The statement reaffirmed that Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki remains a committed PDP stalwart who is actively engaged in efforts to strengthen and reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The PDP in Kwara remains united, focused, and loyal to its ideals. We advise all our members to disregard any invitation or pressure to join the so-called coalition and remain resolute under the banner of the PDP,” it added.
When contacted for a response, Hon. Abdulkadir Olanrewaju Oba-Aluko, the coalition’s contact person in Kwara State, declined immediate comment, saying, “Really, I’m busy for now, but when I am through, I will call you.”
However, in an earlier statement, Oba-Aluko had confirmed the coalition’s expansion into Kwara, describing it as part of a national effort to prevent Nigeria from slipping into a one-party state. He urged organisations, associations, and individuals to join the movement by registering with the names of their groups, two notable political referees, and contact details.
Leave a Reply