Nigerians have Lost Confidence in PDP_ Gabriel Suswam

Former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswan has expressed that Nigerians have lost trust in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In an interview in Abuja, he attributed this decline in confidence to the party’s perceived corruption, ineffective governance, and internal conflicts.

Suswan pointed out that the PDP’s lengthy rule of 16 years was tarnished by corruption, embezzlement, and mismanagement, which diminished public trust. He stated, “The party’s failure to adequately address corruption and hold wrongdoers accountable has eroded faith in its ability to fulfill its promises.”

He further criticized the party for its poor governance, noting issues such as inadequate infrastructure, healthcare, and education, which contributed to disillusionment among Nigerians. “The party has not lived up to its commitments, leading the public to believe that it focuses more on its internal affairs than on serving the populace,” he said.

Additionally, Suswan highlighted the party’s internal strife, including factional splits and power battles, as significant contributors to the loss of confidence. “The leadership is perceived as disconnected from the needs of ordinary citizens, reinforcing the image of a party absorbed in its own politics rather than public service,” he explained.

Suswan warned that this erosion of confidence could have serious electoral repercussions, potentially resulting in the loss of the presidency and control of the National Assembly to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted, “An ineffective opposition may undermine Nigeria’s democratic process, allowing the ruling APC to act with impunity.”

He urged the PDP to undertake internal reforms, advocating for more transparent and democratic election processes for its leaders and candidates. “The party must revamp its internal structures and create a vision that resonates with the Nigerian people,” he insisted, emphasizing the need to confront the issues that led to the loss of confidence.

Since losing the general elections to the APC in 2015, the PDP has faced ongoing internal strife and factional disputes, projecting an image uninterested in public service.

In response to Suswan’s comments, PDP National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan acknowledged the challenges and affirmed that the party is working towards solutions. “We are dedicated to reforming our structures and creating a vision that appeals to Nigerians,” he stated. “We aim to rebuild trust and offer a viable alternative to the APC.”

Political analysts believe this loss of confidence has essential implications for Nigeria’s democracy. Dr. Festus Okoye, a political analyst, remarked, “A robust opposition party is crucial for a thriving democracy.” He emphasized the need for the PDP to revamp itself to effectively challenge the APC and support the continuation of democratic processes.

In related developments, the APC welcomed Suswan’s remarks as validation of their stance that the PDP has failed. “The PDP’s decline is a direct result of its failures, such as corruption and ineffective governance,” said APC National Publicity Secretary Lanre Issa-Onilu. “We will continue to strive for good governance and the health of our democracy.”