Sule Lamido PDP Convention Criticism sees ex-governor dismiss Wike-led faction plan and call for unity within the Peoples Democratic Party
Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido has dismissed the planned national convention of the Nyesom Wike-backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party Peoples Democratic Party, describing the initiative as lacking historical legitimacy and urging renewed focus on party unity.
Also read: Sule Lamido Urges PDP Unity Ahead of National Convention
The Sule Lamido PDP Convention Criticism came during an interview with Daily Trust, where the former governor questioned the role of rival factions within the party and insisted that efforts should instead be directed towards reconciliation and strengthening the PDP.
Sule Lamido argued that both the Wike-led group and the Taminu Turaki faction had little connection to the founding principles of the party, adding that their influence should not overshadow the original vision of the PDP’s formation in 1998.
He referenced key political figures he said were instrumental in the creation of the party, stressing that the PDP was built on broad national consensus involving leaders from different ideological backgrounds.
Sule Lamido said the party was founded by figures such as Adamu Chiroma, Alex Ekwueme, Solomon Lar, Bola Ige, Iyorchia Ayu, Abubakar Rimi, and Jerry Gana, describing them as patriots who shaped Nigeria’s democratic direction.
“These are people who during Abacha fought for democracy… the PDP was founded by these people who sat down and reflected and came with a very strong party,” Sule Lamido said.
He emphasised that the PDP was designed as a national platform transcending ideological divisions, bringing together political traditions ranging from UPN to NPN in a unified structure centred on national interest.
Sule Lamido also warned that ongoing internal conflicts within the party were weakening its electoral strength, arguing that continued infighting could ultimately benefit the ruling All Progressives Congress All Progressives Congress and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He stressed that his position was not aligned with any faction but with the survival of the PDP as a political institution.
“I am not for Wike, I am for PDP,” he said, adding that sustained internal disputes were eroding the party’s chances ahead of future elections.
Also read: Sule Lamido warns PDP crisis may force exit
Sule Lamido concluded that unity remains essential if the PDP is to remain competitive, warning that persistent divisions could further weaken its standing in Nigeria’s political landscape.
