The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, has asserted that Nigerians harbor a profound nostalgia for the party’s return to power, attributing this sentiment to what he described as the “manifest failures” of the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) administration. His significant remarks followed a strategic meeting in Abuja with former PDP governors and ministers, where discussions centered on the party’s historical performance and its prospective political trajectory ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The high-level gathering, personally convened by Turaki, aimed to consolidate party unity and galvanize support across its influential ranks. Former public office holders, key figures who served during the PDP’s 16-year tenure at the helm of national affairs, collectively pledged their allegiance to the newly constituted National Working Committee (NWC). This demonstration of solidarity underscores the party’s concerted efforts to fortify its base and project a cohesive image to the Nigerian electorate.

Turaki underscored the deliberate rationale behind organizing the meeting, framing it as an opportune moment to reflect on the “16 glorious years” of PDP governance. He specifically highlighted the “uncommon projects and legacies” initiated by former PDP governors across various states. These infrastructural and developmental achievements, he contended, continue to stand as enduring testaments to the party’s tangible impact at the sub-national level, resonating positively with citizens.

Expanding on the party’s federal contributions, the chairman lauded the “phenomenal work” undertaken by former PDP ministers during their time in office. He cited their crucial contributions in policy formulation, the effective implementation of key governmental programs, and the execution of projects that profoundly improved the lives of Nigerians nationwide. These comprehensive efforts at the federal level, he argued, laid a robust foundation for national progress and development.

Turaki further asserted that despite the PDP having exited power nearly a decade ago, its legacies at both state and federal levels remain visibly impactful and continue to serve the nation. He claimed these tangible achievements are evident for all to observe, challenging any narratives or attempts to discredit the party’s past accomplishments. This persistence of legacy, he suggested, is a key factor fueling the alleged public nostalgia for the PDP’s return.

The PDP chairman contended that, notwithstanding “great efforts” to malign the party and its past leaders, Nigerians have consistently maintained a nostalgic connection to the bond and relationship built over those 16 years. He interpreted this enduring public sentiment as a testament to the positive impact the PDP had on the nation and its people, suggesting a resilience against narratives aimed at undermining its historical contributions and public image.

Turaki specifically cited the PDP’s record in significantly growing the Nigerian economy and substantially reducing the nation’s debt burden during its tenure. He underscored these economic achievements as crucial indicators of the party’s sound fiscal management and its proven capacity to steer the country towards prosperity, implicitly contrasting it with current economic challenges faced by the nation.

Furthermore, the chairman highlighted the PDP’s instrumental role in building critical national infrastructure and strengthening vital institutions across various sectors. He argued that these institutions, established and fortified under PDP leadership, continue to underpin governmental operations at different levels, from project execution and monitoring to the crucial fight against corruption, demonstrating a lasting positive influence on national governance.

Against this backdrop of historical achievements and perceived public nostalgia, Turaki issued a clear directive to the new NWC, emphasizing a strategic realignment. He reiterated the committee’s consistent commitment to restoring the “glorious 16 years” of PDP rule, underscoring the imperative to “go back to the basics” in their approach to party governance, internal cohesion, and public engagement.

This renewed focus on foundational principles and past successes signals the PDP’s intent to re-energize its political machinery and messaging. The party aims to leverage its historical narrative and perceived public sentiment as it strategically prepares for the 2027 elections, positioning itself as a credible and experienced alternative to the ruling APC, especially amidst current national challenges.

The claims from the PDP chairman emerge within a complex and dynamic Nigerian political landscape, characterized by ongoing debates about economic stability, national security, and governance effectiveness. Political parties frequently engage in rhetoric that highlights their past achievements while critically assessing the performance of opponents, particularly as general elections draw closer and the political temperature rises.

As the 2027 elections loom, statements such as these are anticipated to intensify the political discourse, shaping public opinion and influencing party strategies across the board. The PDP’s narrative of nostalgia and alleged APC failures will undoubtedly form a core part of its campaign messaging, aiming to sway voters who may be disaffected with the current administration’s policies and outcomes.

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Keywords: PDP, APC, Nigeria politics, 2027 elections, political nostalgia, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, economic development Nigeria, party governance