Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has acknowledged that more members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are likely to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) amid ongoing leadership crises within the opposition party.

Speaking to journalists in Ilorin, Kwara State on Wednesday, Saraki, who heads the PDP's recently constituted reconciliation committee, expressed determination to reposition the party despite its internal challenges.

Multiple Leadership Crises Plague PDP

The PDP has been grappling with several layers of leadership crises since the build-up to the 2023 presidential election. The party continues to deal with fallout from Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike and the G-5 governors' disagreement with former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar.

Adding to these challenges, the party is currently embroiled in a dispute over who should occupy the office of National Secretary, further deepening divisions within its ranks.

Saraki's Reconciliation Efforts

Despite acknowledging potential defections, Saraki maintained that the PDP remains "the only viable opposition party" in Nigeria. He expressed optimism about the reconciliation process, noting positive responses from party colleagues.

"I'm also confident that politicians from other political parties might also join the PDP," Saraki stated, suggesting a potential two-way flow of membership between parties.

The former Senate President reassured PDP members nationwide of ongoing efforts to address the party's internal challenges. "We are doing our best to rescue the party's situation. We are confident that we will tackle the situation. We are committed to it," he emphasized.

Opposition Role in Nigerian Politics

Saraki's comments highlight the continuing importance of the PDP as a counterbalance to the ruling APC in Nigeria's democratic landscape, despite its internal struggles. The party's ability to resolve its leadership issues will likely determine its effectiveness as an opposition force ahead of future elections.

Political analysts note that a strong opposition is crucial for democratic accountability, making the outcome of the PDP's reconciliation efforts significant beyond just party politics.