By Ihechi Enyinnaya
A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has declared that the party will return to power in 2027, insisting that Nigerians are weary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at the inauguration of new PDP managers in Lagos on Friday, George expressed strong optimism about the party’s prospects, urging members not to panic despite ongoing political tensions. He maintained that the PDP remains the strongest and most nationally spread political platform in Nigeria and is well-positioned to reclaim leadership at the federal level.
Describing the outcome of the party’s November 2025 national convention in Ibadan as a “rebirth,” George said the exercise marked a new beginning and restored the confidence Nigerians had in the PDP at its founding in 1998. According to him, the convention demonstrated internal democracy and organizational discipline.
He vowed that the PDP would not allow what he termed anti-democratic elements within the APC to destabilize the party. George alleged that some PDP governors and lawmakers were being pressured and threatened to defect but insisted that such moves would not weaken the party’s structure nationwide.
The PDP stalwart also criticized the APC’s internal processes, alleging that its leadership emerged through imposition rather than democratic elections. He contrasted this with what he described as the PDP’s transparent ward, council, and state congresses culminating in a credible national convention.
George further accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of attempting to undermine PDP’s internal affairs, warning the electoral body to remain neutral and avoid actions that could erode public trust. He cautioned against any manipulation of democratic processes, referencing the 1962 Western Region crisis and the chain of events that preceded Nigeria’s civil war as historical lessons.
Alleging that the APC was plotting to rig the 2027 general elections, George warned that Nigerians would resist any attempt to subvert the people’s will. He also condemned what he described as chaotic and mismanaged conduct in a recent election, citing reports of ballot box snatching and security interference.
Highlighting the inauguration of the Lagos State Executive Council led by Dr. Fawole, George said the development underscored the PDP’s stability and preparedness for the next electoral cycle.
He concluded by assuring Nigerians that the PDP is ready to reposition the country and restore it to its rightful place in the comity of nations, expressing confidence that the party’s return to power in 2027 is inevitable.