PDP Not Dead, We Are Lions- Kaduna PDP Chairman Edwards affirms on Voting Arena

As Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence anniversary, the Kaduna State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Chief Masha, appeared on Voting Arena, where he expressed confidence that the party is on track to reclaim power in 2027.

During the program at voting arena, hosted by Kingsley Okiemoya with Kingsley Okafor as the scanner, Chief Masha congratulated Nigerians on the country’s milestone but urged leaders to reflect on the future.

“At 65, whether as a nation or as an individual, you must begin to think about what legacy you are leaving behind. Unfortunately, Nigeria is not where it ought to be, but hope is not lost,” he said.

PDP Still a Strong Force

Responding to questions from the Voting Arena, Chief Masha dismissed suggestions that PDP is a dying party. He pointed to the party’s performance in the last general election as proof of its strength.

“Some people say PDP is dead, but in the last election — even with APC holding the presidency and governorship — PDP still won three senatorial seats and 10 out of 16 House of Representatives seats. That is not the record of an underdog. We are lions,” he declared.

He also noted that PDP performed strongly in state assemblies, stressing that the party remains a formidable force nationwide.

Internal Wranglings and Party Discipline

When asked about PDP’s internal challenges, the kaduna chairman admitted that disagreements and sabotage weakened the party in 2023.

“The mistakes we made were not because APC overwhelmed us but because of internal issues — zoning disputes, infiltration in candidate selections, and even members playing the spoiler. In one local government alone, we lost 11,000 votes because of our own members, not APC,” he revealed.

On Wike’s Influence and the National Convention

The hosts also pressed him on the influence of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, within the PDP and preparations for the next convention. Chief Masha acknowledged Wike’s impact but stressed that the party remains united.

“We cannot deny Wike’s influence, but PDP is not a one-man party. We are fully prepared for our convention. Talk of a parallel convention is uncalled for. If you have a candidate, bring him, campaign, and let delegates decide. That is democracy,” he emphasized.

Concerns Over Democracy

Chief Masha expressed concern about the state of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that opposition voices are being stifled.

“The democracy we see today is one of coercion, intimidation, and threats against the opposition. But opposition is vital for good governance. If we silence opposition, then democracy itself is under threat,” he said.

2027 Elections: PDP Ready

Concluding the interview on Voting Arena, the Kaduna PDP chairman assured Nigerians that the party is correcting its mistakes and is determined to return to power.

“By the special grace of God, 2027 will be for the people. PDP is ready, and we will take Nigeria back on the path of progress,” he affirmed.