PDP not dead, remains Nigeria’s main opposition — Lagos governorship aspirant
A candidate for the governorship of Lagos State from the Peoples Democratic Party, Funso Doherty, has asserted that the PDP is an essential component of Nigeria's democratic framework, highlighting the importance of a robust opposition in maintaining democracy.
A candidate for the governorship of Lagos State from the Peoples Democratic Party, Funso Doherty, has asserted that the PDP is an essential component of Nigeria's democratic framework, highlighting the importance of a robust opposition in maintaining democracy.
During a conversation on ARISE News on Tuesday, Doherty refuted allegations regarding the PDP's decline, claiming that such assertions are overstated.
"The assertions regarding the demise of the PDP are, I believe, significantly overstated.
"Are there issues within the party? Certainly. Are there crises internally? Yes. However, the ongoing contestation for the integrity of the PDP transcends the party itself," he remarked.
He conveyed that the disputes within the party signify a wider fight for the preservation of Nigeria's democratic principles.
"It represents a struggle for the essence of the party, but it is also a broader contest for democracy in Nigeria. Ultimately, if there is no opposition, we do not have democracy," he expressed.
He contended that in spite of internal conflicts and departures, the PDP stands as the premier opposition entity in the country.
"When assessing the current landscape, the PDP emerges as the primary opponent to the APC. In light of all the departures, the largest alliance of governors remaining is within the PDP. Also, in the National Assembly, the predominant group is the PDP," he reaffirmed.
Doherty claimed that outside influences are exacerbating some of the challenges the PDP is facing.
"There are individuals within the party who are loyal to interests outside of it. It is commonly understood, for instance, that the Minister of the FCT is part of the current government... When conflicting interests are present, we must approach everything you say with skepticism," he stated.
In response to reports suggesting rifts within the Lagos PDP, Doherty rejected such claims.
"I challenge the entire concept of factions. I acknowledge there are internal disagreements, yes, but I disavow the term factionalisation," Doherty stated.
Regarding his connection with party leader Olabode George, Doherty characterized it as friendly and expressed hopefulness regarding the upcoming primaries.
"I'm engaging with a number of the leadership figures, including Chief Olabode George, who is a paternal figure and a key leader. We have an excellent rapport. I have no concerns about our success in the primaries," he remarked.
Doherty’s remarks arise amidst the resurgence of turmoil within the PDP, which followed Monday's dramatic seizure of the party's national headquarters, Wadata Plaza in Abuja, by supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
This incident transpired while members of the National Working Committee affiliated with the PDP governors, led by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and National Chairman, Umar Damagum, reportedly lost control of the party's structure amid the ongoing power struggle.
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