Former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi and his Jigawa State counterpart, Sule Lamido, have pledged to work towards reconciliation within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as part of efforts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
The two leaders met behind closed doors on Tuesday at Makarfi’s residence in Kaduna, where they discussed the internal challenges facing the party and the broader political climate.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Makarfi said their engagement was part of ongoing consultations aimed at restoring unity and strengthening the PDP.
According to him, the current state of the party requires reflection, maturity and a willingness among members to forgive one another.
“This is not the time to be angry. It is time to put on our thinking caps and ensure that we come out of the situation the party is in,” he said.
Makarfi, a former National Caretaker Chairman and Secretary of the PDP Board of Trustees, emphasised that the discussions were not centred on personal ambitions but on safeguarding the collective interest of the party and its members, especially those aspiring to contest elective offices in 2027.
He noted that politics is dynamic and requires continuous reassessment of strategies in response to national developments, stressing that leaders must act in the best interest of democracy and the country.
Lamido echoed similar sentiments, stating that he and Makarfi had over the years maintained regular consultations on the state of the nation and the fortunes of the PDP.
He acknowledged that, like any human institution, the PDP has faced internal challenges but said commitment to democracy and national development should override individual grievances.
Expressing concern over Nigeria’s security situation, economic difficulties and what he described as the weakening of multi-party democracy, Lamido said a stronger and more united PDP was necessary to provide credible political leadership.
He added that ongoing discussions among party stakeholders were focused on resolving disputes, including litigations, and building consensus ahead of future elections.
“It is not about ego or pride. It is about national sacrifice. We must put the party and the country first,” Lamido said.
Both leaders affirmed their commitment to broaden consultations with other stakeholders in the party to promote reconciliation, rebuild trust and present a united platform capable of competing effectively in 2027.
