The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is navigating a delicate period of internal reconciliation and image rebuilding following the 2023 general elections. The party’s acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, has made a clarion call for unity and discipline within the party ranks, particularly among social media influencers and bloggers. Acknowledging the power of digital platforms in shaping public perception, Damagum cautioned against the spread of misinformation and divisive rhetoric that could further fracture the party. He stressed the PDP’s resilience and emphasized the importance of prioritizing the collective good over individual ambitions. This appeal comes at a time when the party is grappling with internal disagreements and seeking to consolidate its support base in preparation for future electoral contests. Damagum’s message underscores the urgent need for party members to present a united front and focus on promoting the PDP’s vision for Nigeria.
The recent two-day capacity-building workshop on media awareness and political peace, held in Birnin Kebbi, served as a platform for the party leadership to address these critical issues. Organized by the PDP Supporters Group in collaboration with Northern Professionals in Politics and Development, the workshop aimed to equip social media handlers with the skills and knowledge necessary to promote party cohesion and project a positive image to the public. Damagum, represented at the workshop by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Yusuf Dingyadi, urged participants to leverage the power of social media responsibly, emphasizing the need for accurate and constructive online engagement. He condemned the use of digital platforms to amplify internal conflicts and spread damaging propaganda, actions that could undermine the party’s efforts to regain public trust and electoral viability.
The workshop comes against the backdrop of recent public disagreements among key party figures, highlighting the challenges facing the PDP in its quest for internal harmony. Dr. Suleiman Aliyu-Gafai, Head of Media Mobilization for the PDP Supporters Group, criticized statements made by some party members, including Board of Trustees Chairman, Sen. Adolphus Wabara, as detrimental to party unity. These internal rifts underscore the need for a concerted effort to bridge divides and rebuild trust within the party. Gafai’s criticism emphasizes the importance of responsible leadership and the need for party elders to prioritize reconciliation and collective action.
A key takeaway from the workshop is the recognition of the crucial role of northern Nigeria in the PDP’s electoral fortunes. Dr. Gafai urged northern PDP leaders to rally behind the party, particularly given the significant support received by the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in the 2023 elections. This appeal acknowledges the strategic importance of the northern region for the PDP and highlights the need to consolidate support in this key demographic. Building on this foundation of support is essential for the party’s future electoral success and its ability to present a credible challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The workshop’s focus on capacity building for social media handlers reflects the growing importance of digital platforms in contemporary political discourse. Recognizing the power of social media to shape narratives and influence public opinion, the PDP aims to equip its online advocates with the tools and strategies to effectively communicate the party’s message and counter misinformation. The training sessions covered various topics, including leadership, digitalization, and the political history of northern Nigeria, providing participants with a broader understanding of the political landscape and the challenges facing the party. By investing in the training of its social media handlers, the PDP seeks to enhance its digital presence and effectively engage with voters online.
Ultimately, the PDP’s path forward hinges on its ability to address internal divisions, project a unified image, and articulate a compelling vision for Nigeria. The call for unity and discipline, coupled with the emphasis on responsible social media engagement, reflects the party’s recognition of the challenges it faces in the post-2023 election landscape. The emphasis on building bridges within the party, particularly in the northern region, underscores the strategic importance of this demographic for the PDP’s future electoral prospects. By prioritizing internal cohesion and effective communication, the PDP aims to regain public trust and position itself as a viable alternative to the ruling APC. The workshop served as a crucial step in this process, providing a platform for dialogue, capacity building, and strategic planning for the future.
