society
The Betrayal of a Dream: How Atiku Abubakar Undermined the PDP Legacy
The Betrayal of a Dream: How Atiku Abubakar Undermined the PDP Legacy
By George O. Sylvester (According to Chief Frank Anagu)
Once upon a time in the annals of Nigerian political history, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) stood tall as the most beautiful bride of the Fourth Republic graceful, purposeful and built on the sacrifice of visionaries who gave their sweat and soul to end military tyranny. Founded in the wake of national despair, the PDP was not just a party it was a mission, a covenant between the people and democracy.
The party’s roots trace back to the courageous G34 group, a coalition of Nigeria’s finest elder statesmen led by the likes of the late Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Chief Olu Falae, Pa Abraham Adesanya and other political patriots. Their singular goal: to oust the dictator Sani Abacha and restore the rule of law in a bleeding nation. It was not a game of power, but a fight for Nigeria’s survival. The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), originally founded by the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, played a crucial role in that struggle. Upon Yar’Adua’s death, his political heir, Atiku Abubakar, took the reins of PDM and merged it with G34. This union birthed the PDP, a party we all laboured to build.
It is within this historical backdrop that the tragedy of Atiku Abubakar’s political missteps must be critically examined. According to Chief Frank Anagu, a founding member and former Chairman of the PDP South Africa Chapter and former Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT), the party’s decline is not accidental it is the result of avoidable betrayals, unholy alliances and a chronic lack of discipline and ideological clarity from leaders who should have known better.
When the PDP was being formed, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was still incarcerated. Upon his release and in a spirit of national healing, the party’s founding fathers approached him to serve as a one-term transitional president. His mission was clear: to rein in the military, professionalize the armed forces and restore Nigeria to democratic sanity. Atiku Abubakar, in what was then considered an act of patriotism, supported Obasanjo’s emergence against the grain of party elders.
But power, as always, reveals the character of men. Once in office, Obasanjo reneged on the gentlemen’s agreement and sought a second term. Rather than defend the original covenant with the party’s founders, Atiku betrayed that agreement and justified it by saying Obasanjo had “knelt down” to beg for his support. At that time, Atiku wielded immense power controlling 28 PDP Governors and could have restored principle over politics. Instead, he enabled the betrayal. That was the first mistake.
On December 14, 2004, during the African National Congress (ANC) Convention in Stellenbosch, South Africa, a defining moment unfolded. Chief Frank Anagu, then PDP Chairman in South Africa, was at the Cape Town International Airport to receive Vice President Atiku Abubakar. With him were Chief Charles Rapuluchukwu Ufochukwu (PDP Chairman, Western Cape) and Dr. Tunji Olagunju (then Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa). But to their astonishment, the first person to step off Atiku’s flight was none other than Bola Ahmed Tinubu accompanied by Bayo Ojo. A chill ran down the spines of those present. This was no ordinary visit; it was a political omen.
Chief Frank Anagu, addressing Atiku, cautioned him strongly: “Be very careful about those who do not want you to be President of Nigeria.” The ambassador himself nodded in agreement and clapped, a silent but firm endorsement of the warning. Yet, Atiku, ever dismissive of internal wisdom, defended his closeness with Tinubu in front of the Nigerian community. Worse still, he uttered the words that would haunt him for years: “I can be President of Nigeria with or without Obasanjo.” That arrogance, that detachment from political reality, marked the beginning of his downfall.
Atiku’s perpetual DECAMPING from PDP to Action Congress (AC), then back to PDP, then to APC and again back to PDP reflects a man not anchored by principle but by political survivalism. Such instability has led to the erosion of the PDP’s ideological identity, resulting in the disillusionment of party faithful across the nation and in the diaspora.
Today, the PDP is a shadow of its former self not because it lacked talent or vision, but because leaders like Atiku failed to embody consistency, discipline and loyalty. Chief Frank Anagu, having served in several capacities within the PDP and having witnessed firsthand the integrity of the party’s formation, laments what the party has become: “This is not the party we fought to build. It was a dream born from sacrifice. Now, it is threatened by selfish ambition.”
The lesson here is simple: no political movement can survive the constant betrayal of its founding ideals. The PDP was never designed to be a one-man show, but a collective platform of patriotic Nigerians committed to unity, equity and justice. Atiku’s political zig-zagging and refusal to reconcile sincerely with key party blocs has cost the PDP dearly.
But all hope is not lost. In the spirit of political redemption, Chief Frank Anagu offers strategic advice: “Now that the Labour Party is in disarray, Atiku must be bold and humble enough to forge an alliance with the Obidient movement of Peter Obi.” This is not about Peter Obi or Atiku alone, it is about rebuilding the foundation of democratic politics in Nigeria. A merger of credible forces is not only strategic, it is necessary for survival.
The 2027 elections present a critical opportunity. Nigeria cannot afford another cycle of recycled confusion. A coalition that unites the PDP’s experience with the energy and idealism of the Obidient movement may very well be the last hope of rescuing Nigeria from the grip of impunity and visionless governance.
Chief Frank Anagu’s reflections must not be dismissed as mere nostalgia. They are a wake-up call. The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on whether leaders are willing to set aside ego for purpose, ambition for nationhood and manipulation for morality.
Let this serve as a historic record. The PDP was built on blood, sweat and a dream. It must not be allowed to die at the hands of those who benefited most from its birth. Nigeria deserves better. And so does the People’s Democratic Party.
Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation
The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.
The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.
Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.
As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps
Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.
Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:
“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”
This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.
society
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.
According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.
“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”
Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.
By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.
For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.
As one youth participant reflected:
“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”
The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.
-
society5 months agoRamadan Relief: Matawalle Distributes Over ₦1 Billion to Support 2.5 Million Zamfara Residents
-
Politics2 months agoNigeria Is Not His Estate: Wike’s 2,000‑Hectare Scandal Must Shake Us Awake
-
society4 months agoBroken Promises and Broken Backs: The ₦70,000 Minimum Wage Law and the Betrayal of Nigerian Workers
-
society3 months agoOGUN INVESTS OVER ₦2.25 BILLION TO BOOST AQUACULTURE