The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum has described the PDP as a pillar of Nigeria’s democracy as the party marks its 27th anniversary.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Forum’s Chairman and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, through its Director-General, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, the governors noted that the party’s tradition of rotating leadership between the North and South has been instrumental in promoting national unity and inclusiveness.
Formed on August 31, 1998, the PDP governed Nigeria for 16 years, producing three presidents: Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007), the late Umar Musa Yar’Adua (2007–2010), and Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015).
Although the party lost the 2015 presidential election to the All Progressives Congress’ late Muhammadu Buhari, it retained control of nine states and a significant presence in the National Assembly, affirming its status as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.
After overcoming a prolonged internal crisis, the PDP is now focused on its National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, which the Forum said would further reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The PDP governors also congratulated the party’s leadership, members, and supporters within Nigeria and abroad.
It stated, “Since its formation on 31st August 1998, the PDP has remained a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic evolution, shaping the political landscape with resilience to national unity.
“Founded during Nigeria’s transition from military rule to democracy, the PDP emerged as a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians yearning for civilian governance, economic reform, and social justice.
“The party’s early triumph in the 1999 general elections marked the beginning of a new democratic era, with former President Olusegun Obasanjo at the helm, setting the tone for progressive leadership and institutional rebuilding.
“It governed Nigeria with vision for 16 consecutive years, producing three presidents and overseeing significant reforms in telecommunications, banking, education, healthcare, and infrastructure which rebirthed economic stability and highly impacted workers’ welfare, created employment, boosted investments and rejigged entrepreneurship with a resultant poverty reduction.
“The PDP’s commitment to rotating leadership between the North and South helped foster national cohesion and inclusivity.”
The PDP governors stressed that the road ahead is just as crucial as the progress already made, adding that Nigerians expect the party to keep evolving, motivating, and providing leadership with integrity.
It continued, “Two decades later, and even in opposition, the PDP has remained a vibrant force delivering good governance, holding government accountable and championing the rights of citizens.
“Its enduring presence in the National Assembly and across state governments is a testament to its deep-rooted connection with the Nigerian people and its unwavering belief in democratic ideals.
“On a note of reflection, the PDP has faced formidable challenges—internal divisions, electoral setbacks, and shifting political tides.
“Yet, through it all, the party has demonstrated remarkable tenacity by engineering social reconciliation within its fold and strongly called for decisive action on the politically-induced insecurity monster that has ravaged the peace of the country and its innocent citizens.
“As the PDP celebrates 27 years of existence, may this milestone serve as a reminder of the party’s legacy and a call to renew its commitment to good governance, transparency, and service to the nation.
“The journey ahead is as important as the path already travelled, and Nigerians look forward to a PDP that continues to evolve, inspire, and lead with integrity.”
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