From: Daure David
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has long been a beacon of political resilience in Nigeria, but recent developments within the party have raised questions about its future. A close look at the history of the party’s survival, especially in the aftermath of its crushing defeat in the 2015 elections, sheds light on the pivotal role played by key figures like Nyesom Wike. However, while gratitude for past efforts is important, it must not be used as a justification for personal agendas that threaten the very foundation of the party.
In 2015, following PDP's unexpected loss to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Wike, alongside former Governor Ayodele Fayose, played a significant role in ensuring that the party did not completely collapse. Their championing of Ali Modu Sheriff as the party’s national chairman was a controversial decision that was intended to stabilize the party, preventing it from disintegrating further.
In the years that followed, despite the missteps and challenges, Wike’s leadership was crucial in keeping the PDP afloat. His efforts, including hosting and funding critical meetings, rallying support, and fighting to maintain unity, helped the party survive the leadership tussle that led to the 2017 Supreme Court ruling in favor of the Ahmed Makarfi-led Caretaker Committee.
One of the key moments in PDP's reconstruction came with a motion moved by Austin Opara and seconded by Emeka Ihedioha. This motion, which led to the dissolution of the existing National Executive Committee (NEC), marked a turning point in the party’s struggle to regain its footing. These are important moments that demonstrate the collective effort that has gone into rebuilding the PDP.
However, the party's survival cannot be credited to any one individual. Figures like Ahmed Makarfi, Ben Obi, Odion Ugbesia, Babangida Aliyu, Abdul Ningi, Ifeanyi Okowa, Dayo Adeyeye, and others all played significant roles in the party’s recovery. Their sacrifices helped rebuild the PDP and provided Wike with the platform to rise within the party. Without these contributions, the party might have disintegrated completely, and Wike himself would not have had the political prominence he enjoys today.
While Wike's contributions in the past are undeniable, it is equally important to emphasize that no individual should be allowed to hijack the future of the PDP. Leadership is about preserving a legacy, not dismantling it for personal gain. As the party continues to navigate its internal dynamics, it is essential to remember that the survival of the PDP has always been a collective effort. The sacrifices of those who have worked tirelessly to rebuild the party cannot be overshadowed by the ambitions of one person.
As the PDP looks toward the future, it must hold firm to the principle that no individual is bigger than the party itself. The party’s resilience has always depended on unity and collective action, and it is crucial that these values remain at the core of its leadership. The demand is clear: “No individual should be bigger than the party.” The PDP’s survival must be safeguarded, not through the ambitions of a few, but through the collective commitment of all its members.
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