A federal lawmaker, Senator Garba Maidoki (PDP–Kebbi), has attributed the recent wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to ongoing internal crises within the party.
In an interview in Abuja, Maidoki responded to the defection of several PDP members to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the political shift as “unfortunate.” He warned that a one-party system is detrimental to democracy, emphasising that a strong opposition is vital to hold the government accountable and ensure that necessary actions and corrections are made.
“What we are witnessing today is a mass exodus towards the APC, largely because the PDP has failed to put its house in order,” he stated.
Representing Kebbi South Senatorial District, Maidoki lamented the persistent crises within the PDP and expressed concern over the party’s capacity to organise a national convention. He criticised the governors, who should act as stabilising forces, for appearing indifferent to the situation.
“As senators, we lack the resources to maintain party unity. I contribute 40 per cent of my salary to the PDP national headquarters, but this is merely a fraction of what is needed to keep the party running,” he said.
Maidoki warned that if party leaders did not take responsibility, the PDP might not survive as a viable political entity in the near future. “We hope it’s not too late to get our act together. This is in Nigeria’s best interest,” he added.
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When asked if he intended to defect, Maidoki reiterated that his focus was on national interest rather than personal ambition.
“For me, being a senator is not the ultimate goal; it is a means to an end. My aim is to help make Nigeria work, especially for the next generation. Unfortunately, many politicians are more focused on the next election than on achieving tangible results during their term,” he remarked.
Maidoki stressed that his priority was performance, not political survival. “I’m not concerned about the next election. I’m focused on what I can deliver before then. If I can make a difference, even a small one, that will be enough for me,” he said.
He also revealed that he had previously turned down a committee chairmanship in sports, explaining that he preferred to concentrate on issues that more directly impacted governance.
“Our problem isn’t a lack of laws; we have enough laws. The challenge is implementation. If I can contribute to ensuring compliance and accountability, I will consider that a significant achievement,” he concluded.
