‘We’ll play real opposition after convention’ — PDP

By Lawrence Agbo

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it will begin to function as a strong opposition force once it concludes its upcoming national convention and installs a new leadership.

Speaking on Channels TV Morning Brief, the party’s National Publicity Secretary of the caretaker committee, Jungudo Mohammed, said the PDP is currently focused on stabilising its internal structure ahead of the convention.

According to him, a functional and stable political party is a prerequisite for effective opposition, stressing that without internal cohesion, it would be difficult to challenge the ruling party.

“You must have a functional political party before you get into real opposition. Without a stable party, you cannot play that role effectively,” he said.

Mohammed explained that the PDP’s immediate priority is to conduct its convention and usher in a new National Working Committee, which he believes will reposition the party.

“As we prepare for the convention, once a new executive comes into place, you will see a stable PDP. From there, we will begin to play our role as the leading opposition party in the country,” he added.

He noted that the core responsibility of any opposition party is to hold the government accountable and offer an alternative vision for governance.

“Fundamentally, it is for us to checkmate the excesses of the ruling party and also position ourselves to take over power and improve the lives of Nigerians,” Mohammed said.

The PDP has faced internal crises in recent years, including leadership tussles and defections, but officials believe the convention will reset and strengthen the party.