Hon. Edward Marshal, chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, has asserted that only the PDP, in collaboration with other opposition groups under its guidance, possesses the organizational capacity to defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Marshal made these remarks in Kaduna during a meeting where he received backing from several political organizations affiliated with the Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim (GOH) Front 2027.
Addressing questions from the press about coalition politics, Marshal emphasized that no other party matches the PDP’s extensive national reach and membership strength.
He confidently predicted that opposition factions would eventually unite under the PDP’s leadership when the time is right.
“No party has a more comprehensive structure across Nigeria than the PDP. Whether you accept it or not, when the moment comes, all opposition forces will align under the PDP if our goal is to serve our people and bring about a change in government,” he affirmed.
The chairman highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians with the APC administration, citing the current economic hardships as a critical factor that will undermine the ruling party’s chances at the polls.
“Today, the average Nigerian is reluctant to even mention APC. Living conditions are dire, many children are dropping out of school, and numerous families struggle to afford two meals a day. The economy is in a poor state, and Nigerians are aware that voting for APC is not an option,” Marshal stated.
He also revealed that the PDP’s upcoming national convention, scheduled for November, is expected to revitalize the party, attract new members, and encourage defections from the ruling party. Marshal stressed that the convention will send a clear message that the PDP is prepared to reclaim leadership.
Regarding the zoning arrangement, Marshal explained that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has designated the presidential ticket for the South and the national chairmanship for the North, but clarified that this does not bar any aspirant from contesting.
Meanwhile, the Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim (GOH) Front 2027 has called on the PDP leadership to reconsider the zoning decision. They argue that opening the presidential ticket to all aspirants would strengthen the party’s position ahead of the 2027 elections.
Hon. Aliyu Mohammed (Achili), the state coordinator of the group, presented a letter to the Kaduna PDP chairman urging the NEC to revoke the zoning directive. He stated, “We appeal to the NEC to leave the presidential ticket open so that every loyal Nigerian party member who is willing and capable can contest.”
He explained that this stance aims to promote fairness and expand the pool of qualified candidates who can represent the PDP in the election.
In response, Marshal assured the group that their appeal would be forwarded to the national leadership for review. He emphasized that while the PDP remains receptive to input, its primary focus is on consolidating its nationwide structures.
The Kaduna PDP chairman expressed optimism that through unity and effective mobilization, the party will offer Nigerians a credible alternative and rescue the nation from what he described as “the shortcomings of APC’s governance.”
