2023 Presidency: Saraki Shuts Down Talks Of Jonathan’s Defection

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki on Tuesday said the former President Goodluck Jonathan has reassured the People's Democratic Party (PDP) of his unwavering commitment to the party.

Saraki said those disturbing Jonathan to defect to another party should forget the thought, saying the former president remains a PDP main man.

He disclosed this shortly after he led the reconciliation and strategy committee of the party to Jonathan’s residence in Abuja following the news making rounds that All Progressive Congress (APC) is planning to pair Jonathan and the Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmad El-Rufai for 2023 presidential election. 

Speaking to newsmen in Abuja, Saraki said the committee members had briefed Jonathan of their mandate and plan to strengthen the party. The committee was set up in 2019 to resolve the internal crisis within the PDP and reconcile aggrieved members.

He said, “He gave us his views and we are very happy. He reassured all of us of his commitment to the PDP and he told us that he is still ready to offer his time, experience and resources to strengthen the party."

“That is very strong and important for us. Of course, you know there are funny issues going on but we are leaving this place very happy. He is also ready to work with the reconciliation committee to play his own part. That is a great step for the party.

“We spoke about what role former presidents like him will play and he left us feeling very happy that yes, he will like to play that role in the PDP and help our committee to move forward.

READ ALSO: PDP Leaders Meet Jonathan Ahead of 2023

“That is a great step for the party. We have put that behind us all those people of the other party that would like to come and disturb our leaders. Our leaders are here and they are ready to work for the party.”

Members of the committee at the meeting include Anyim Pius Anyim, ex-secretary to the government of the federation, Ibrahim Shema, former governor of Katsina; Liyel Imoke, former governor of Cross River and Ibrahim Dankwambo, former governor of Gombe.

Others were Mulikat Adeola-Akande, former leader of the house of representatives.