‘Our umbrella is big enough’ — PDP senators say party should lead 2027 coalition

The senate caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says the party should lead any coalition formed ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking at a meeting in Abuja, Abba Moro, minority leader of the senate and chairman of the caucus, said the PDP is well positioned to steer a coalition capable of strengthening democratic governance.

“We are not averse to the idea and ideals of coalition. The synthesisation of ideas and creating a harmony of ideals will further the beauty of democracy. However, any such coalition should be driven by political parties and not individuals,” Moro said.

“As the biggest of all the opposition parties, the PDP’s umbrella is big enough to accommodate all persons desirous of coalition.

“The Peoples Democratic Party, therefore, should drive the coalition if and when it becomes necessary.”

The caucus dismissed suggestions that the PDP is collapsing, saying internal disagreements are not exclusive to any one party.

“The current conflicts in the PDP are not different from what other parties like the APC, Labour Party and NNPP are facing,” More said.

The senators urged party members to remain resolute, expressing confidence that the PDP would emerge stronger and more competitive.

They also warned against weakening the opposition, arguing that democracy thrives when there is a strong counterbalance to the ruling party.

“The beauty of democracy is in the existence of robust opposition to keep the ruling party in check to ensure good governance,” Moro said.

“Celebrating the emasculation of other parties and tilting towards a one-party state will not advance the cause of democracy.”

Moro called on members nationwide to recommit to the PDP’s ideals, saying the party is capable of offering Nigerians a credible alternative.

“Out of the throes of the current conflicts in the party will arise a renewed, vibrant party that will give Nigeria an alternative to the current ruling party,” he said.

On May 15, Moro said politicians defecting from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) are “sinners” looking for “political forgiveness”.