Former President Goodluck Jonathan has dismissed concerns regarding the stability of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), describing the organisation as "alive and strong" despite ongoing internal friction. Speaking at a high-level meeting in Abuja on January 6, 2026, the former leader emphasised that the party remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic history and a vital vehicle for national development.
The statement was made during a consultative visit by the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), led by the National Chairman, Dr Kabiru Tanimu Turaki. Jonathan’s uncharacteristic vocalisation on party affairs comes at a critical juncture, as the PDP seeks to consolidate its structure ahead of the 2026 midterms and the 2027 general elections.
"The PDP is the only original party that has remained consistent since the return to democracy in 1998," Jonathan stated during the session. He noted that while other political platforms have undergone various mergers and name changes, the PDP’s enduring identity signifies a resilience that cannot be easily overlooked by political detractors.
Addressing the NWC, Jonathan urged party leaders to prioritise discipline and internal cohesion. He reportedly criticised "abrasive" political styles, advocating instead for a return to the mature diplomacy that characterised the party’s earlier years. He pledged to take a more proactive role in advisory capacities to help bridge divides within the various state chapters.
Dr Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, speaking on behalf of the NWC, expressed gratitude for the former president’s continued loyalty. He noted that Jonathan’s stature as a statesman provides the PDP with a unique advantage in its quest to present a formidable front in upcoming electoral cycles.
