2027: Lagos PDP signals readiness for alliance with other parties

The Lagos State Organising Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hakeem Olalemi, says the party is open to alliances with other political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Olalemi disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.

He said the PDP would consider alliances capable of advancing the interests of Nigerians and residents of the state.

According to him, the party is willing to collaborate with groups sharing similar political ideology and developmental goals.

“As we are now, PDP is ready. If any political party comes, we are ready to meet anybody to form an alliance.

“As long as we share the same ideology and goals, we will work together for the benefit of the masses.

“If the alliance will benefit the people of this country and Lagos State, PDP will do that,” he said.

Olalemi, however, said discussions on alliances would be handled by the party’s national leadership and relevant organs at the state.

“PDP has organs and structures. Discussions on alliances do not start from the streets.

“Our national leaders and southwest leaders will direct us on where the party is going, and we will follow accordingly,” he said.

The PDP chieftain also expressed confidence in the party’s preparedness for the 2027 elections in Lagos State.

He said the party had commenced sale of nomination forms, with aspirants showing strong interest across various constituencies.

“People have been coming en masse to buy forms. In some constituencies, we already have three or four aspirants,” he said.

Olalemi said the PDP was determined to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) strongly in the state.

“We are preparing seriously for 2027. APC and we are ready for a fierce contest in Lagos State,” he said.

He added that the PDP was hopeful of winning seats in the House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly.

Olalemi also said the party would present a formidable governorship candidate for the election.

He described Mr Muka Popoola as the authentic State chairman of the party, insisting that the party leadership in the state remained intact.

The PDP official also urged aggrieved members and rival factions within the party to return to the fold for reconciliation and unity ahead of 2027.

“We are one family. Everybody should come back to the party. We are ready to accommodate everyone,” he said.

Speaking on the lingering leadership crisis, Olalemi maintained that the recent court judgments were in favour of his faction of the party.

He said the PDP constitution remained supreme, adding that no individual was bigger than the party.

NAN reports Popoola emerged as the PDP Chairman of a faction that is backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. (NAN)