Former Senate President and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Reconciliation Committee, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has issued a stark warning that the worst of defections from the party is yet to come. Despite this grim outlook, he affirmed the PDP's unwavering commitment to rebuilding and repositioning itself for the crucial 2027 general elections. Speaking in exclusive interviews, Saraki addressed the deep-seated internal challenges currently plaguing the main opposition party, alongside his observations on the broader landscape of Nigerian politics.

Saraki acknowledged that defections were an ongoing concern, and more high-profile exits, potentially involving governors and senators like Siminalayi Fubara, were to be expected. He stated, "We haven’t seen the worst of the defections for PDP." However, he drew a distinction between the decisions of political elites and the steadfast loyalty found at the grassroots level. He noted that many defections were "top-down moves," while the party's foundation remained strong with grassroots members who had been PDP supporters their entire lives. He expressed that this early period of turmoil, occurring two years before the elections, provided a valuable opportunity for the party to regroup and lay a solid foundation.

A central point of the party’s current woes is the prolonged leadership dispute over the rightful occupant of the National Secretary position. Saraki confirmed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) only recognizes Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the legitimate secretary, meaning any official party communication not signed by him is deemed invalid. This legal and procedural controversy has led to the much-anticipated National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting being shelved in favor of an expanded stakeholders’ caucus. This strategic move aims to sidestep legal pitfalls that could jeopardize the eligibility of future aspirants. Saraki stressed the need for extreme caution, stating, "We can’t afford a situation where aspirants win primaries and then get disqualified because of internal technicalities."

As the head of the reconciliation committee, Saraki defended the committee’s efforts, stating that they have not failed but are actively laying the groundwork for unity and a clear party structure. He emphasized that the immediate priority is to correctly address the issue of the National Secretary, which would then pave the way for a legal NEC meeting and subsequently a convention to elect a new, legitimate executive. Saraki views the current turmoil as an opportunity for renewal. "Those that want to leave, let them leave. Maybe it’s an opportunity…those who are staying, clearly they’re staying, they’re very committed. Let’s use this opportunity to start to rebuild for the future," he asserted.

Looking ahead, Saraki confirmed that the PDP is already strategizing to field a strong and credible presidential candidate for 2027. He warned of the severe implications for Nigeria’s democracy if the PDP, as the largest opposition party, fails to stabilize, cautioning that the nation risks slipping towards a dangerous one-party state. He called for the emergence of a new generation of PDP leaders, advocating for the upcoming convention to serve as a platform to inject fresh energy and younger faces into the party’s leadership. Despite the gravity of the challenges, Saraki remains cautiously optimistic, reiterating that the PDP's issues, while serious, are not insurmountable, provided the party remains united, adheres to due process, and prioritizes its collective interest.