A former Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Political Affairs, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has declared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) beyond repair, stating it is “gone” and cannot be salvaged. Baba-Ahmed made these candid remarks during a recent interview on Arise Television, offering his perspective on Nigeria’s political landscape as the nation anticipates the 2027 general elections.
Baba-Ahmed articulated his view that the PDP is currently “drifting away” and that the notion of anyone being able to fix it is unfounded. He suggested that the party is no longer the sole entity capable of providing a robust opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), pointing to other political groups like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as potential alternatives.
The political advisor emphasized that while criticisms of the current government are valid, insufficient attention is paid to the self-inflicted damage within the opposition. He posited that the PDP has been on a prolonged “free fall,” largely due to its own actions and inactions over an extended period.
According to Baba-Ahmed, many politicians within the PDP, having held power for a significant duration, have struggled to adapt to life in opposition. He described them as accomplished individuals who successfully ran the country but appeared to lose their bearings after relinquishing power, a sentiment he believes is contributing to the party’s current predicament.
While acknowledging criticisms directed at President Tinubu, including concerns about the amassing of power and the consolidation of politicians around him, Baba-Ahmed redirected focus to the PDP’s internal struggles. He asserted that the party has been “consistently destroying itself,” a stark contrast to its promising beginnings with experienced politicians who had served the nation.
Baba-Ahmed further elaborated on the PDP’s internal divisions, noting its inability to effectively manage or retain factions within the party. He drew parallels to past instances, such as the 2015 defections, suggesting a recurring pattern of significant portions of the party moving to the opposition, thereby weakening its structure and influence.
