PDP RE- STRATEGIZES: Ajia harps on Youth Inclusion, Financial Stability

Abdulrahman Aliagan

Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, the PDP 2023 general election candidate for Ilorin-west and Asa Federal Constituency had made a ‘Call to Action’ on the Peoples Democratic Party, urging PDP to prioritize youth involvement and financial stability as key strategies for revitalizing the party.

Ajia was one of the Panelists at the conference organized by “PDP Like Minds”, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center in Abuja, themed: “Fix Our Party to Fix Nigeria”, which attracted a significant gathering of the party’s National Working Committee members, Board of Trustees, and grassroots supporters.

Addressing the conference, Ajia emphasized the critical role of youth participation in shaping the future of the party and the nation. “Nigeria’s young people are the bedrock of our democracy, and their active involvement in the PDP is essential for driving positive change,” he said.

Ajia’s call to action focuses on two key areas – youth involvement and financial stability. He stressed the need to encourage young people to take up leadership responsibilities within the party, recognizing their potential to revitalize the PDP’s vision and mission.

Moreover, Ajia underscored the importance of strengthening the party’s financial base, noting that a strong financial foundation would enable the PDP to effectively support its activities and candidates. “A financially robust party is better equipped to withstand the challenges of modern-day politics and deliver on its promises to the Nigerian people,” he affirmed.

The conference provided a platform for in-depth discussions on internal democracy, focused and principled leadership, and adherence to the party’s constitution.

Ajia’s call for youth involvement and financial stability resonated with the attendees, who voiced their support for his vision.

As the 2027 general elections approach, Ajia’s message serves as a rallying cry for the PDP to capitalize on the energy and enthusiasm of Nigeria’s youth while simultaneously strengthening its financial backbone. By addressing these critical areas, the party hopes to position itself for a return to power so as to deliver on its promise to “Fix Nigeria.”

The conference brought together seasoned politicians, legal experts, and party stalwarts who addressed the internal contradictions and anti-party activities that have plagued the PDP in recent years.

Former Senator Sanusi Dagash, provided historical context, emphasized that the PDP is the only party in Nigeria that has maintained its name, logo, and structure, with a presence in all 774 local governments. He asserted that the party belongs to all Nigerians, underscoring its importance in the country’s political landscape.

However, Hon. Ikenga, a member of the House of Representatives from Imo State, expressed concerns about the National Working Committee’s (NWC) management of the party, accusing them of playing “Nyesom Wike’s card” and rendering the PDP a “toothless bulldog.” He stressed the need for the party to take disciplinary matters more seriously.

Former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, SAN, highlighted the PDP’s impressive track record, having won four consecutive presidential elections in the past. He emphasized the party’s ability to advance numerous points and reasons to reclaim power.

The Deputy National of Legal Adviser of PDP, Barr. Ikechukwu reassured the attendees that the NWC is working tirelessly to ensure the party’s resurgence, addressing the legal and constitutional matters at hand.

Notably, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, criticized the perceived lack of commitment from the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. He urged the party leadership to reevaluate their approach and work towards reclaiming power for the benefit of the nation.

The conference served as a platform to identify the party’s challenges and chart a path forward. Discussions centered on the importance of adhering to the rule of law, strengthening party organs, resolving internal disputes, and developing a cohesive opposition strategy to address the country’s pressing economic and social challenges, such as high fuel prices, unemployment, and insecurity.

As the PDP prepares for the 2027 elections, the “PDP Like Minds” conference has provided a critical opportunity for the party to regroup, address its internal contradictions, and craft a comprehensive plan to reclaim Nigeria’s political landscape and offer a viable alternative to the electorate.