PDP Convention: Come back home, Sule Lamido begs defectors

2026-03-29 - 20:45

By Luminous Jannamike ABUJA — Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, on Sunday urged aggrieved members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and those who have left the party to return, calling for unity and a renewed commitment to the national interest. Speaking at the PDP’s 10th Elective National Convention in Abuja, Lamido said the party must reflect on its founding ideals and the sacrifices that shaped its emergence in 1998. “I want to speak to you from the standpoint of the history of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria. I have listened to all the speakers, and I heard the chairman say we should reflect. Indeed, we should reflect. “Where was the PDP in 1998? What lay before the PDP in 1998? What were the vision, the dream, and the wisdom of the founders of the PDP, our fathers?” he asked. Lamido recalled that the party was formed at a critical period following the crisis triggered by the annulment of the June 12 1993 presidential election, which heightened divisions across the country. “In 1998, the main challenge before the PDP was national unity, especially in the aftermath of the events of June 12. In their wisdom, the leaders came together,” he said. Lamido listed key figures involved in the party’s early formation, including the late Solomon Lar, Alex Ekwueme, Adamu Ciroma, Jerry Gana, Abubakar Rimi and Sunday Awoniyi, noting that consultations began as early as 1996–97 during Nigeria’s transition to civilian rule. “We began that process because Nigeria had been diminished, yet it had an important role to play in the comity of nations; because Nigeria is the mother of the Black race; because Nigeria is a leader in Africa; and because Nigeria is endowed with vast human and material resources, a rich history, and a strong heritage. It was clear that Nigeria must play a leading role globally,” he said. He emphasised that sacrifice and a focus on the national interest, rather than personal ambition, were central to the PDP’s founding. “Therefore, we knew that sacrifice was essential; very, very important. Whatever we do, whatever role we play as individuals, Nigeria must remain the central focus. Personal interests and ambitions should have no place when Nigeria is at stake. That was why the PDP was founded,” he said. Addressing younger Nigerians, Lamido said many may not fully appreciate the efforts of the party’s founding fathers, describing himself as a bridge between generations. “I stand here as a bridge between the old order and the new order, to give you hope, to inspire you, and to motivate you. Do not give up. Stand for Nigeria,” he said. He warned that the country risks returning to the same divisions that existed before the return to democratic rule. “We are today where we were in 1998, confronted again by the dangers of tribal politics, religion, and ethnicity. “There is no way this country can grow, no way it can move forward, if we are not united as Nigerians. Unity is the minimum benchmark for leadership,” he added. Lamido called on party members to embrace a collective national vision and set aside grievances. “Therefore, if we must truly lead, we must embrace a national collective vision, a national interest that unites us all. “Today, I am encouraged. Despite our difficulties, the PDP is once again trying to reinvent itself,” he added. Lamido appealed directly to defectors to return, describing the PDP as a political home with deep roots across the country. “I appeal to those who are aggrieved: please reconsider your position. “When you speak about the PDP, you are speaking about the Nigerian family. It is not about any individual, ego, or ambition. The PDP is present in every village, in every home. “Many of the other parties we see today were, in one way or another, products of the PDP. If you examine them closely, you will find that many of their key figures emerged from this party. “Therefore, I appeal to you: if you have left your home, come back. This is your home. This is the party that honoured you, that gave you opportunities to serve as president, governor, minister, or in other capacities. Come back to the PDP. “What we see here today; the commitment, the enthusiasm, the zeal, the sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, should guide us. “I urge those who are outside to return. We are ready to forgive; we are willing to move forward for the sake of Nigeria and for the sake of the PDP. Let us embrace unity. “This is not about any individual. The PDP cannot be appropriated or owned by anyone. It belongs to all Nigerians. “So stay focused. Stay committed. The journey ahead is difficult, but it is a journey for those with courage, conviction, and character,” Lamido said.