Former Kaduna State governor, Ahmed Makarfi, and former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, on Tuesday held a closed-door meeting at Makarfi’s residence in Kaduna, where they discussed strategies to promote reconciliation and unity within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
After the meeting, both leaders briefed journalists, describing their engagement as part of ongoing consultations aimed at repositioning the opposition party for future electoral battles.
Makarfi, a former National Caretaker Committee Chairman and Secretary of the PDP Board of Trustees, said the discussion was in line with sustained efforts by party elders to stabilise and strengthen the PDP.
According to him, the current state of the party calls for deep reflection, forgiveness, and renewed commitment from its members.
“This is not the time for anger. It is a time to think deeply and ensure that we emerge stronger from the challenges confronting the party,” he said.
Makarfi noted that the talks were not driven by personal ambitions but by the collective interest of the PDP and its members, particularly those planning to contest elective offices in 2027.
He added that politics is dynamic, stressing the importance of continuous assessment of national developments and taking decisions that advance democracy, Nigeria, and the PDP.
Makarfi said it was important to brief the media after the meeting to clarify the purpose of the engagement and to signal the need for wider consultations across party structures.
In his remarks, Lamido said he and Makarfi have a long-standing tradition of exchanging views on national issues and the fortunes of the PDP.
He acknowledged that the party, like any human institution, faces internal challenges, but insisted that loyalty to democracy, the nation, and the PDP must take precedence over personal differences.
Lamido expressed concern over Nigeria’s current situation, citing insecurity, economic hardship, corruption, and the state of the country’s multi-party democracy as issues that require a stronger and more united PDP.
He explained that ongoing engagements among party leaders are focused on resolving disputes, including court cases, and forging a united political front.
“It is not about ego or personal pride. It is about national sacrifice. We must put the party and the country first,” Lamido said.
Both leaders assured that they would continue consultations with other PDP stakeholders to encourage reconciliation, rebuild trust, and strengthen internal cohesion.
They expressed optimism that sustained dialogue would enable the party to overcome its challenges and present a united and credible platform capable of offering effective leadership to Nigeria in the years ahead.