PDP beyond repair, ADC could emerge as credible opposition — Baba-Ahmed

By Kunle Sanni –

A former spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is no longer viable as a political force, describing the opposition party as “gone and beyond repair.”

Baba-Ahmed made the remarks on Thursday during a programme on Arise News, amid ongoing internal crises within the PDP following the 2023 general elections. The party has been grappling with defections, including the exit of serving governors and other key members to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to him, the PDP’s decline has created space for other parties to challenge the APC, naming the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a potential alternative opposition platform.

“The PDP is drifting away. I think it is gone, and I do not believe anyone can fix it,” Baba-Ahmed said. “The PDP is not the only party capable of providing a credible opposition to the APC; there is the ADC and others.”

However, the former special adviser on political matters to Vice-President Kashim Shettima cautioned that the ADC must distinguish itself with fresh ideas and a clear political identity if it hopes to gain public trust. He stressed that simply positioning itself as an opposition party would not be sufficient.

He said Nigerians are increasingly demanding clear policy options and defined governance priorities rather than vague promises to unseat the current administration.

“Ask them today what they will do, beyond simply opposing and hoping that they can unseat President Tinubu; they won’t tell you,” Baba-Ahmed said. “Somebody in this party should be saying to Nigerians, if you trust us in 2027, these are the things we will do.”

Baba-Ahmed urged the ADC to embark on wide-ranging recruitment of credible political actors, including defectors from other parties, to build a strong opposition coalition with a clear vision for the country.