Alhaji Sule Lamido, who has served as both the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the governor of Jigawa State for two terms, shared his insights in an interview with Mannir Dan Ali on Trust TV. He discussed the ongoing challenges facing his party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and linked these issues to historical events among northern leaders dating back to 2007. Additionally, he addressed the reasons why contemporary political leaders in Nigeria should be wary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
As a long-standing member of the PDP since its inception, Lamido stands out as one of the few politicians who has remained loyal to the party without switching allegiances. However, he acknowledged that the PDP is currently experiencing significant internal strife. Many observers struggle to comprehend the reasons behind the party’s divisions, prompting inquiries into Lamido’s perspective on its present condition.
Lamido pointed out that for those under 30, grasping the essence of the PDP may be difficult. He noted that the party’s history extends back nearly 30 years, to its founding in 1998. Individuals who were around 10 years old during that time are now in their early 30s, which adds to the challenge of understanding the party’s evolution.
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He emphasized the importance of historical context in evaluating the PDP’s philosophy. According to Lamido, it is crucial to consider the party’s origins and its journey over the years. In 1998, Nigeria was grappling with a severe crisis of trust and cohesion, marked by deep divisions within the country. This fragmentation was largely a consequence of the annulment of the June 12 election, which was widely regarded as the fairest and most transparent election in Nigeria’s history.
The annulled election showcased the potential for national unity, as it brought together Nigerians from various regions and religious backgrounds. The candidate, Moshood Abiola, was a southerner, while his running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe, hailed from the north, and both were Muslims. This unprecedented collaboration was a significant moment for Nigeria, highlighting the possibility of unity amidst diversity.
Following Abiola’s victory, there was a palpable sense of cohesion among Nigerians, transcending regional and religious divides. However, the abrupt annulment of the election shattered this newfound unity, leading to widespread disillusionment and a loss of hope in the political system. Lamido believes that this historical context is vital for understanding the current state of the PDP.
He argued that the party’s internal conflicts cannot be viewed in isolation but must be analyzed through the lens of its historical journey. The challenges the PDP faces today are deeply rooted in past events, including the fallout from the annulled election and the subsequent political landscape. This history has shaped the party’s identity and its struggles.
In light of these complexities, Lamido expressed concern about the future of the PDP. He believes that the party must confront its historical baggage while also adapting to the current political climate. This requires a reevaluation of its strategies and a commitment to fostering unity among its members.
Ultimately, Lamido’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of history in shaping political identities and conflicts. As the PDP navigates its internal challenges, understanding its past will be crucial for building a more cohesive and effective party moving forward.
