Tambuwal, Others Push Merger Talks As Sokoto, Kebbi PDP Signal Readiness To Join Coalition

Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto and Kebbi States have declared their readiness to join any credible coalition or political alliance aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

In Sokoto, prominent PDP leaders, including former Governor Aminu Tambuwal, have reportedly agreed to merge with the newly formed political platform, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), one of the 110 political parties seeking registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

A reliable source told Punch that the decision was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Saturday, where plans to defect from the PDP to the ADA were finalised.

“We held a crucial meeting, and the major agenda was the merger into ADA. We’re putting final touches to the arrangement, and an official announcement is expected soon,” the source said.

Among those present at the meeting were Umar Bature, the PDP’s National Organising Secretary; Senator Aminu Tambuwal; Sokoto PDP Chairman Aliyu Goronyo, and other key stakeholders.

When contacted, the state PDP Publicity Secretary, Hassan Sanyinnawal, confirmed the meeting but declined to comment on the merger plans.

“Yes, we held a stakeholders’ meeting at the house of our leader, Senator Tambuwal. It was just our usual meeting; no cause for alarm,” he said.

Kebbi PDP Declares Readiness To Align With Anti-APC Coalition

In Kebbi State, PDP leaders also met on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi, where they reaffirmed their commitment to building a robust opposition and exploring opportunities for coalition.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, party chieftain and elder statesman, Ibrahim Mera, said the PDP in Kebbi is open to all legitimate efforts to dislodge the APC, both at the state and national levels.

“We are ready to collaborate with like-minded groups and political platforms committed to rescuing Nigeria from the hardship imposed by the APC-led government,” he said.

Mera also disclosed that plans are underway to conduct the state congress, pending approval from the national leadership.

Also speaking, Kebbi PDP Chairman, Usman Suru, urged citizens to remain resilient amid growing economic hardship.

“We understand the pain our people are going through. The PDP is working to provide a better alternative that prioritises the welfare and security of all Nigerians,” he assured.

On his part, the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, Gen. Aminu Bande (retd.), accused the APC-led administration in the state of mismanagement and political intimidation.

“The current government in Kebbi State has resorted to witch-hunting opposition members through arbitrary arrests and harassment,” Bande alleged.