Kaduna State’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Zone 3 stakeholders have emphatically reaffirmed their commitment to the party’s resilience and growing grassroots strength, despite recent defections. Convening in Kafanchan for a summit themed “Get Strengthened: A Wake-Up Call to PDP Members,” the party declared its readiness to reclaim political dominance in the region ahead of the 2027 general elections. This gathering underscored a unified front aimed at consolidating support and strategizing for future electoral success.

Yusuf Danjuma Akuso, the Zonal Chairman, robustly dismissed concerns surrounding members’ departures, asserting that the PDP’s roots remain deep within its grassroots constituency. Akuso expressed unwavering confidence in Zone 3’s electoral prospects, boldly assuring attendees of the zone’s capacity to secure a senatorial seat and multiple House of Representatives positions in upcoming polls. His remarks served to galvanize party faithful and project an image of internal stability.

Delivering the keynote address, former Kaduna State Governor and Special Guest of Honour, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, urged party members to maintain unwavering resolve, focus, and unity as preparations for the 2027 elections commenced. Senator Makarfi sought to reassure the party faithful that ongoing leadership disputes at the national level would not diminish the PDP’s strength or adversely affect its electoral fortunes. He projected that the party would emerge stronger from its current challenges, emphasizing the critical importance of unity and discipline among members.

Makarfi also issued a stern caution against the pervasive influence of “money politics” during party primaries. He advised members to prioritize the selection of principled and credible candidates who genuinely represent the interests of the populace. The former governor stressed that the future viability of the party hinges on integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment, rather than mere financial leverage or inducements. This call for ethical conduct aimed to foster a more meritocratic selection process.

Further bolstering the party’s resolve, Mrs. Lawrencia Mallam, former Minister of Environment, delivered a goodwill message reaffirming the steadfast commitment of women to the PDP. She pledged continuous mobilization of women across Zone 3, emphasizing their vital role in supporting and strengthening the party at all organizational tiers. Her message highlighted the significant contribution of women to the party’s grassroots outreach and electoral machinery.

Felix Hassan Hyat, the immediate past Chairman of the PDP in Kaduna State, took the opportunity to highlight the party’s enduring legacy in Southern Kaduna, particularly during the administration of Senator Makarfi. Hyat noted that the PDP had “liberated” the zone through strategic initiatives, including the creation of new chiefdoms and transformative investments in rural infrastructure, such as extensive road development, which significantly improved living conditions.

Chief Edward Percy Masha, the current PDP State Chairman, commended party faithful for their trust in the present leadership. He attributed this confidence to a recent court ruling that affirmed the party’s legal challenge, which sought to nullify what he described as the “installation” of local government council chairmen in the state without due elections. This legal victory was presented as a testament to the party’s renewed vigor and commitment to democratic principles.

Chief Masha further posited that the departure of some members, rather than weakening the party, had inadvertently paved the way for a new generation of leaders. He asserted that this evolution was strengthening the party’s internal structure and strategically positioning it for sustained success in forthcoming elections. The summit concluded with multiple goodwill messages from various party leaders and stakeholders, reinforcing a palpable sense of renewed unity and determination within the PDP family in Zone 3.

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Keywords: PDP Zone 3 Kaduna, 2027 general elections, Peoples Democratic Party, Kaduna State politics, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, grassroots political strength, Nigerian political dominance, party leadership disputes