The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s main opposition party, has vehemently criticized Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), for his recent declaration that the APC intends to “capture” the entire South West region. This statement, made during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ondo on Sunday, has sparked significant backlash from the PDP, which views it as a direct threat to democratic principles in the country.
Ganduje’s comments came in the context of the upcoming governorship election scheduled for November 16 in Ondo State, where he expressed confidence that the ruling party would secure victory. He also claimed that the APC would wrest control of Osun and Oyo states, which are currently governed by the PDP.
In response, Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, addressed journalists at the party’s headquarters on Monday, asserting that Ganduje’s remarks could render him unwelcome in the South West. Ologunagba urged the international community to recognize the gravity of Ganduje’s statements, framing them as indicative of a broader trend towards totalitarianism and the establishment of a one-party state in Nigeria.
“This rhetoric implies that he intends to treat the South West and its citizens as prisoners of war,” Ologunagba stated. “This is deeply concerning. The South West has a rich history of political awareness and a strong commitment to democratic values. The people know their rights and will not be easily subdued.”
Ologunagba emphasized that Ganduje’s comments should serve as a warning, not just to the PDP but to all Nigerians. “For Ganduje to make such reckless assertions in Ondo State is alarming and should draw the attention of both Nigerians and the international community. He poses a threat to democracy,” he asserted.
He further cautioned Ganduje to be mindful of the sentiments in the South West, suggesting that his remarks could lead to him being declared a “persona non grata” in the region. “The APC should understand that the upcoming election in Ondo State is a different scenario entirely. The people are prepared to vote for the PDP, and any attempts to intimidate or suppress them will not be tolerated. The history of the Ondo people shows that they cannot be cowed or controlled by threats of ‘capture.’ We are not prisoners; we are free citizens who will exercise our democratic rights,” Ologunagba concluded.
As the political landscape heats up ahead of the governorship election, the PDP’s strong response to Ganduje’s claims highlights the ongoing tensions between Nigeria’s major political parties and underscores the vital importance of safeguarding democratic processes in the country.