A senior Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) figure, Muhammadu Abdullahi Sugar, has called on the governors of Bauchi and Zamfara States to resist pressures to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking in Kano, Sugar warned that alleged attempts by the APC-led federal government to coerce opposition governors could undermine Nigeria’s democratic system.
He specifically urged Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed and Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to remain committed to the PDP, emphasizing the importance of respecting the mandate given by voters.
Sugar noted that recent defections by elected officials have raised concerns about political intimidation and the erosion of democratic values.
He argued that switching to the ruling party would not address the country’s pressing challenges, and suggested that some governors who had defected did so under undue pressure.
Acknowledging that the PDP had lost members to defections, Sugar insisted that such movements would not weaken the party’s resolve ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He expressed confidence that the performance of PDP governors, particularly in northern states, would enhance the party’s credibility and restore public trust.
Sugar stressed that political loyalty and adherence to electoral mandates are critical for strengthening democracy and countering perceived manipulations by the ruling party.
The PDP chieftain concluded that sustaining opposition unity is essential for promoting accountable governance and providing Nigerians with credible alternatives.
