The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), once the dominant political force in Nigeria, now finds itself grappling with a crisis of identity, leadership vacuum, internal disunity, and diminishing electoral relevance. After ruling Nigeria for 16 unbroken years, the PDP’s fall from grace has been steady and, at times, self-inflicted.
At the heart of the PDP’s woes is the lack of internal democracy. The party that once prided itself on being the “largest political party in Africa” has been unable to manage dissent or build consensus across its ranks. Factionalism, ego-driven politics, and weak institutional mechanisms have plagued its operations. From controversial primaries to parallel congresses and cross-party defections, the PDP continues to struggle with cohesion.
Zoning and Leadership Crisis
One of the most damaging elements has been the inconsistent application of its zoning principle. Once a symbol of federal balance, zoning in PDP has become a tool for manipulation. The recent presidential primaries showcased the party’s unwillingness to adhere to its own unwritten rules, leaving a trail of bitterness and alienation, particularly in the South. This lack of respect for internal agreements has widened cracks in the party’s national outlook.
Ethnic and Regional Discontent
There’s growing resentment in the South, particularly the South-East, where party loyalists feel betrayed by the leadership’s perceived northern bias. The North-South divide is increasingly evident, and if not managed carefully, it may destroy the remnants of national appeal the PDP still clings to.
The Way Forward: Structural and Ideological Reforms
To salvage its fortunes, the PDP must undergo a total restructuring, not just of its leadership but of its ideology and internal systems.
-
Rebuild Internal Democracy: Transparent primaries, credible congresses, and inclusive decision-making processes must replace the current politics of imposition and favoritism.
-
Clear Zoning Policy: The party needs to institutionalize its zoning formula with clarity and commitment. Flip-flopping on such a sensitive arrangement will only deepen mistrust.
-
Youth and Grassroots Inclusion: A major flaw of the PDP is its overreliance on career politicians and political heavyweights. The youth and grassroots must be empowered to shape the party’s future.
-
Ideological Rebirth: Beyond seeking power, the PDP must redefine what it stands for. Is it a party for social justice, economic development, federalism, or mere election victories?
-
Reconciliation and Discipline: There can be no effective restructuring without reconciling aggrieved members and enforcing party discipline. Leaders must place party interest above personal ambition.
Conclusion
The PDP cannot afford to continue as a party in disarray, chasing the shadow of its past glory. With 2027 on the horizon, Nigerians are watching and hoping for a viable alternative to the ruling APC. But unless the PDP restructures itself—organically and ideologically—it risks being remembered not as the party that built Nigeria’s democracy, but as the one that squandered its legacy.