Happy to know despite defections PDP still alive, strong – Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he feels a great sense of satisfaction knowing that Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is still alive, strong, and resilient, despite defections from the party to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Jonathan reaffirmed that PDP remained a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s democracy, being the only surviving one among the legacy political parties since 1998.

The former president made the remarks while receiving members of PDP National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman, Dr. Kabiru Turaki, SAN, during a high-level consultative meeting held at his private office in Abuja, yesterday.

The meeting focused on the party’s reconciliation process and strategic repositioning ahead of the 2027 general election.

Jonathan stated that PDP possessed the historical resilience and institutional strength required to overcome its current internal challenges, describing the party as more than a political platform, but a national institution.

He stated, “The PDP, being the only surviving original political party since 1998, has been a critical contributor to our democracy since 1999. I have been a beneficiary of this party, which gave me the opportunity to serve as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice President, and President.

“I am grateful to the party and will continue to contribute my quota because I feel deeply indebted to it.”

Jonathan urged the party’s leadership to place national interest and institutional development above personal considerations, stressing that strong political parties are essential to democratic stability.

Earlier, Turaki thanked Jonathan for his fatherly counsel and unwavering loyalty to PDP. He assured the former Nigerian leader that the current leadership of PDP was committed to a comprehensive “Rebirth Agenda” aimed at rebuilding and strengthening the party.

Turaki said, “We came to seek your guidance and to brief you on the prospects and challenges before the party. Our goal is to return power to the people and reposition the PDP as the party of the majority of Nigerians.

“We are reaching out to aggrieved members because a united PDP remains the most viable platform for a balanced and prosperous Nigeria.”