Former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu, has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership to stop welcoming back politicians who previously defected to other parties, labeling them “nomadic politicians” who contribute to the party’s ongoing crises.
Speaking at a PDP Consultative Conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Aliyu criticized the party’s lenient approach toward defectors, arguing that their lack of loyalty has fueled internal instability since 2013-2014.
Aliyu pointed to the PDP’s national convention in Port Harcourt, where he claimed many candidates who emerged were nomadic politicians with a history of party-switching for personal gain.
“Both the chairman and the chairman of the governors’ forum have been diplomatic, saying ‘come back, come back.’ No, you don’t invite nomadic politicians back to your party. These were people with a history of nomadism,” he said, urging the party to enforce discipline and prioritize collective interests over selfish ambitions.
He referenced the PDP constitution, which stipulates that returning defectors must “join the queue” and not be given preferential treatment.
Aliyu also called for principled politics, even if it delays electoral success, and urged Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Abba Moro, to ensure compliance with a court decision regarding the recall of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In contrast, PDP Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, maintained an open-door policy, stating, “Our doors remain open to those who wish to return, and I pray they rediscover themselves.” He acknowledged past internal fractures, including a significant one in 2013, but insisted the PDP remains the only platform capable of returning power to the people.
Bauchi State Governor and PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, Bala Mohammed, echoed Aliyu’s concerns, cautioning members against “de-marketing” the PDP or simultaneously aligning with coalitions like the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“You cannot be in PDP and be in coalition with another party,” Mohammed said, describing the coalition as an “aberration.”
The conference, attended by prominent PDP figures including former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Minister Jerry Gana, also saw discussions on zoning the 2027 presidential ticket to southern Nigeria to promote justice and equity.
The PDP vowed to focus on governance reform, national security, and economic revival as it aims to reclaim its role in Nigerian politics.
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