The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State is preparing for the 2027 general elections. Abayomi Tella, the party’s state chairman, has declared their readiness. They aim to confront the All Progressives Congress (APC) with matching tactics.

PDP Vows to Resist Intimidation in 2027

In a recent interview with Punch, Tella leveled serious accusations against the APC. He claimed the ruling party deployed violence, voter intimidation, and other coercive tactics. These, he alleged, helped secure victories in the 2023 elections. He also cited their use in the recently concluded Remo Federal Constituency by-election.

Tella vowed the PDP would firmly resist any APC attempts to intimidate voters in 2027. He insisted that the era of bullying opposition parties is over. Manipulating the electoral process, he stated, will no longer be tolerated.

“The days when APC could intimidate opposition parties are over,” Tella asserted. “Whatever they bring in 2027, we are ready to match it. The people are now solidly behind us.”

He added, “Their shenanigans are finished. The 2027 election will involve APC and Nigerians. It will not be against PDP or any other party.”

Tella acknowledged the prevalence of political thuggery. However, he maintained that the PDP, as democrats, would eschew violence. “There is no monopoly of violence,” he explained. “But we will ignore violence because we believe the people are behind us. They will vote for us.”

He concluded with a strong message: “In 2027, PDP is coming stronger. We will counter APC’s violent methods.”

Defection No Longer Attractive, Says Tella

Tella also spoke on the defection of PDP members to the APC. Many defectors, he argued, have become mere spectators in their new political home.

He observed that cross-carpeting is no longer appealing to politicians. Defectors, he noted, often struggle to find relevance. This is because they were not part of the APC’s foundational structure.

“It is no longer enviable for a politician to cross from PDP to APC,” Tella stated. “Most of our members who have gone there have become onlookers. They were absent when the party members worked for their victory. So, they are still treated as outsiders.”

PDP’s Resilience and Unity Efforts

Tella further described the PDP as a political organization with deep, enduring roots. He emphasized that efforts to weaken the party have consistently failed. The PDP, he affirmed, remains resilient despite years of challenges.

He also highlighted ongoing deliberate steps by the party leadership. These actions aim to strengthen internal unity. They also seek to keep members aligned. The PDP is focused on consolidating its base. This prepares them for a stronger showing in the upcoming political cycle.

“As far as I’m concerned, PDP is here to stay,” he declared confidently. “The party can never die. If you try to kill it today, it will resurrect tomorrow. We are making frantic efforts to keep our people together.”