The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, calling him a failed and irrelevant figure in Nigerian politics. This criticism comes in response to Kwankwaso’s recent comments regarding the PDP’s declining influence and relevance.
Kwankwaso, who was the 2023 presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), made these remarks during the inauguration of a newly renovated NNPP office in Katsina State.
He asserted that the PDP was “dead” because he and his supporters had left it, suggesting that their departure marked the end of the party’s significance. Kwankwaso declared, “I wish to remind you that PDP is dead because we left the party. Since they have gone out of the line, we decided to check out.” This statement reflects his belief that the PDP’s political influence has waned since his exit.
In response, the PDP, through its National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, issued a rebuttal that sharply criticized Kwankwaso’s comments. Ologunagba described Kwankwaso as “inconsequential” in the current political landscape, arguing that he is struggling to lead a party—NNPP—that controls only one state.
This stands in stark contrast to the PDP’s substantial political presence, which includes 13 governors, a significant number of Senators, numerous members of the House of Representatives, and strong representation in many state assemblies and local government areas across Nigeria.
The PDP’s response accused Kwankwaso of displaying extreme selfishness and lacking true leadership qualities. The statement highlighted that Kwankwaso’s achievements and political prominence were largely realized during his time with the PDP. It expressed disappointment that Kwankwaso is focused on his personal political ambitions rather than addressing the pressing issues facing Nigeria.
The PDP’s statement also emphasized the current economic challenges confronting the country. With Nigeria grappling with severe poverty, high inflation rates, and a significant devaluation of the Naira, the PDP criticized Kwankwaso for seeming indifferent to these critical issues. They pointed out that millions of Nigerians are suffering from hunger and economic hardship due to the APC administration’s policies, including drastic increases in fuel prices and soaring inflation rates.
PDP accused Kwankwaso of being preoccupied with his political aspirations rather than focusing on alleviating the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
The PDP’s statement suggested that Kwankwaso’s current political influence and relevance were largely shaped by his time with the PDP.
They argue that his recent remarks and actions reveal a troubling level of insensitivity and self-centeredness, which they believe undermines his credibility and leadership capabilities. The PDP maintains that Kwankwaso’s comments are an attempt to distract from the real issues facing the country and reflect a narrow focus on his political future rather than the broader needs of the Nigerian people.
