As Nigeria moves steadily toward the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has stated that the upcoming vote transcends traditional party competition, framing it instead as a referendum on the prevailing socio-economic conditions faced by the Nigerian populace.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during the presentation of the Certificate of Return to Chief Ezenwafor Jude, the PDP’s candidate for the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election, the party’s acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, used the platform to emphasise the broader implications of the 2027 polls.
“This election in 2027 is not about how many governors or leaders a party has. It is fundamentally about President Tinubu and the Nigerian people,” Damagum asserted, drawing a direct connection between the current administration and the hardships experienced by citizens.
He described the present state of Nigeria as one in which daily survival poses a significant challenge for ordinary people and urged voters to regard the forthcoming elections as an opportunity to hold the government accountable.
“The average Nigerian is enduring immense hardship, and the decision lies with them. This election is essentially APC versus Nigerians—not APC versus governors or senators,” he added.
“I encourage everyone to come together to rescue ourselves from this suffering, which, in our view, is a result of deliberate policies rather than misfortune.”
Damagum’s remarks come amid internal turbulence within the PDP, particularly in light of the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire state executive council to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reflecting on the development, Damagum expressed deep disappointment, especially given the support the party has extended to Delta State over the years.
“It is both saddening and regrettable. Of all states, we did not expect this from Delta, a state that has benefitted significantly from the PDP’s generosity. Fortunately, their public statements did not indicate any wrongdoing on the part of the party—only acknowledgements of the good we have done,” he stated.
He further noted that while the decision to defect may have been personal, its emotional impact would be felt deeply by the party faithful.
“It was their choice to leave, but the emotional burden lies with us—not out of resentment, but because of the unwavering support we provided, from the current governor to his predecessor, who also served as our vice-presidential candidate,” Damagum explained.
“In Delta State, we gave our all. Their actions were unexpected. Nonetheless, this party has endured far greater challenges and continues to stand strong,” he concluded.
