2027: “It’s time for unity” – Senator Natasha tells PDP after Appeal Court judgement

The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has reacted to Tuesday’s Court decision over the crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a statement issued shortly after the Court of Appeal gave its judgement concerning the party’s national convention and matters arising, Akpoti-Uduaghan urged leaders and members of the PDP to embrace the spirit of reconciliation.

The lawmaker also called on members of the PDP to accept the Court’s judgement as an opportunity to restore unity, strengthen the party’s internal democracy, and reposition the party as a formidable political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.

She warned that prolonged crisis within the PDP would not only destroy the party but undermine the aspirations of many loyal members who seek to contest elections under the PDP platform.

“The Court of Appeal has spoken, and as a democratic party that believes in the rule of law, we must now shift our focus from litigation to reconciliation and rebuilding. The strength of our party lies in unity, collective purpose, and our shared commitment to providing Nigerians with credible leadership,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.

In addition, the Kogi Central lawmaker pleaded with members not to allow the long-standing internal crisis in the PDP deter citizens from considering the party as a platform to serve their communities and country through elective office.

“Our members across the grassroots — those aspiring to serve in State Houses of Assembly, the House of Representatives, Senate, Governorship positions, and even the Presidency — must not become casualties of prolonged disagreements among leaders. Their aspirations and the future of our party must remain paramount.

“At moments like this, leadership demands that we rise above personal interests and focus on the greater good of our party and our nation. The PDP has a long and proud history in Nigeria’s democratic journey, and it is our responsibility to preserve and strengthen it for the generations ahead,” she said.

She further advised PDP stakeholders to work together towards achieving an inclusive and credible national convention, in line with the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“This is the time to come together, engage constructively, and organize a national convention that reflects the unity, inclusiveness, and democratic values of our party. Nigerians are watching, and we must show that the PDP remains ready and capable of leading the nation forward,” Akpoti-Uduaghan added.