By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hajiya Farida Umar, reassured Nigerians in Lafia yesterday, March 3, 2026, that the party remains strong despite defections of former governorship candidates. She said PDP will present new candidates and win the 2027 elections through grassroots engagement.
PDP Stands Firm Despite Former Candidates Leaving
Farida Umar described the resignation of former gubernatorial candidates in Nasarawa State as painful. She emphasized that the departures do not weaken the party.
“Like previous candidates leaving, it is painful, but it does not stop us from showcasing new leaders by God’s grace,” she said.
She highlighted the importance of politics at the grassroots level and said she visited Lafia to personally engage party members.
Appeal Court Judgment Key for PDP
Farida Umar noted that the party is awaiting the Appeal Court judgment following a case regarding party leadership.
“We called on the Justices to do the right thing as the Ibadan court has done,” she said.
She stressed that the judgment could further strengthen PDP and ensure transparency in party elections.
PDP’s Grassroots Presence Worries APC
Umar claimed that the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by President Bola Tinubu, is intimidated by PDP’s nationwide grassroots presence, despite APC controlling 30 states.
“No matter what, PDP cannot be broken. Our presence is strong everywhere,” she asserted.
She urged Nigerians not to be disturbed by defections, assuring them that PDP will showcase candidates from local to national levels in 2027.
Community Outreach in Lafia
During her visit to Lafia Local Government Area, Umar distributed food items, beverages, and cash to PDP stakeholders. The gesture aimed to aid both Christians and Muslims in breaking the Ramadan and Lenten fast.
Court Validation of PDP’s Convention
Farida Umar highlighted the Federal High Court in Ibadan’s 2025 judgment validating the PDP convention led by Taninu Turaki. She described it as unbiased and aligned with the law.
“The Ibadan judgment confirms that our party’s organizational processes are transparent and lawful,” Umar said.
Conclusion
Farida Umar reinforced PDP’s commitment to unity, grassroots mobilization, and electoral success in 2027. She emphasized that defections and political pressure from APC will not weaken the party.
