PDP Is Alive and Strong, Jonathan Tells Turaki-Led NWC

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains alive, strong, and resilient, dismissing speculation about the party’s decline, as he received members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja.

Jonathan made the remarks on Tuesday during a consultative meeting with the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki–led NWC at his private office in the Maitama area of the Federal Capital Territory.

Addressing the delegation, Jonathan said the PDP remains a key pillar of Nigeria’s democratic system, noting that it is the only surviving original political party formed in 1998.

He said the party’s history demonstrates its capacity to withstand internal challenges and remain relevant.

“The PDP, being the only surviving original political party since 1998, has been a critical contributor to our democracy since 1999,” Jonathan said.

“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 and stable political parties are essential for democratic growth and stability.

He described the PDP as more than a political platform, but a national institution with enduring relevance.

Speaking during the meeting, Turaki said the visit was aimed at briefing the former president on developments within the party and seeking his guidance as the leadership works to rebuild unity.

“We came to seek your guidance and to brief you on the prospects and challenges before the party,” Turaki said.

“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.”

Members of the delegation included Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, Prof. Jerry Gana, Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi, Hajiya Zainab Maina, Chief Mike Oghiadome, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), and other members of the PDP National Working Committee.

The meeting underscored Jonathan’s continuing role as a senior statesman within the PDP and highlighted the party leadership’s efforts to stabilise internal structures and reposition the opposition ahead of future electoral contests.