By Bamidele Aremu
The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has distanced itself from the newly formed political coalition movement while issuing a stern warning to its members not to associate with the group or allow themselves to be lured into its fold.
In a statement released and signed by the party’s State Secretary, Abdulrahman Kayode, the PDP made it clear that it has no affiliation with the coalition, which is reportedly being championed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other political actors.
“The attention of the Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to attempts by certain individuals and political actors to lure our members and supporters into the newly formed coalition movement,” the statement read.
According to the party, the coalition is not recognized within the structure of the PDP, particularly in Kwara State, which remains firmly under the leadership of former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.
“We wish to categorically state that the PDP, particularly in Kwara State under the leadership of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has no affiliation whatsoever with the coalition being spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any other group outside the established structure of our great party,” Kayode stated.
The PDP leadership also raised concerns about the alleged misuse of Saraki’s name by elements within the new coalition in a bid to attract loyal PDP members.
“We urge our members and supporters across the state to remain vigilant and not be deceived or misled by the antics of stranded and unpopular politicians who, having deserted our party, are now seeking relevance by falsely using the name of our leader, Dr. Bukola Saraki, to win support for their new political adventure,” the statement warned.
The party noted that many of the individuals now associated with the coalition had either exited the PDP or played no active role during key political events, including the September 2024 local government elections.
“These individuals were notably absent or irrelevant within the party during the September 2024 local government elections. Yet, despite their absence, our party triumphed at the polls. This victory is a testament to the unwavering support we continue to enjoy from the people of Kwara State, regardless of the manipulation of results by the ruling party,” Kayode said.
The party also advised those behind the new coalition to stop exploiting Saraki’s name and urged them to test their popularity based on their own credentials.
“We caution this set of desperate politicians to desist from using Dr. Saraki’s name to lure people to or curry favour within their new political fold. If they are truly confident in their popularity and acceptance among the people, they should campaign based on their own track records and not hide behind the name and legacy of our leader,” the statement added.
Reaffirming Saraki’s loyalty to the PDP, the party emphasized that he remains an integral figure in the ongoing efforts to rebuild and unify the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki remains a proud and committed member of the PDP and is actively involved in efforts to reposition and unify the party in preparation for a successful outing in the 2027 general elections,” the party stressed.
The Kwara PDP concluded by reaffirming its unity and focus, urging members to reject any call to join the coalition and remain committed to the party.
“The PDP in Kwara remains united, focused, and loyal to its ideals. We advise all our members to disregard any invitation or pressure to join the so-called coalition and remain steadfast under the banner of the PDP,” the statement concluded.
