Avoid PDP’s Path: Senator Shehu Sani’s Warning to APC Leaders – A Deeper Analysis of Internal Party Crisis and Democratic Stability

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

Introduction: A Stark Warning from a Seasoned Politician

Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has issued a pointed caution to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging them to learn from the internal fractures that led to the downfall of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking during a Channels Television interview monitored by Persecondnews on Sunday, Sani warned that unresolved internal friction could erode the ruling party’s foundation ahead of future elections. This article expands on Sani’s remarks, providing historical context, practical examples, and actionable insights for political stakeholders and observers.

The PDP’s Collapse: A Cautionary Tale

Sani explicitly referenced the 2015 collapse of the PDP, which lost the presidency after 16 years in power. He attributed this downfall to two critical failures: inability to manage internal crises and failure to recognize the value of every party member. This is not merely a historical footnote—it is a blueprint for political self-destruction.

Key Factors Behind the PDP’s Implosion

• Factionalism and Defections: The PDP was plagued by high-profile defections, including five governors and dozens of lawmakers who joined the APC in 2013–2014. These defections were fueled by perceived marginalization and lack of internal democracy.
• Leadership Disputes: The party’s inability to manage the ambitions of its leaders—particularly around the 2015 presidential primaries—led to a split that weakened its electoral base.
• Neglect of Grassroots Members: Sani’s point about “every member being important” echoes a common critique: the PDP became a top-down organization where local voices were ignored, leading to apathy and eventual exit.

Practical Example: In 2014, the PDP lost the Ekiti State governorship election partly because internal grievances over candidate selection drove key supporters to vote against the party. This pattern repeated nationally in 2015.

The APC’s Current Vulnerabilities

Sani warned that as politicians migrate to the APC, they bring with them the very problems they fled from in other parties. This is a phenomenon known as “problem migration”—where unresolved conflicts from one organization infect another.

Specific Risks for the APC

• Old vs. New Members Tension: The APC must balance the interests of its founding members with those of recent defectors. Without deliberate fairness, resentment can fester.
• Internal Rule Manipulation: Sani criticized attempts to alter Senate standing rules to favor specific individuals, particularly regarding eligibility for principal offices like the Senate President. He argued that such moves are self-serving and could backfire.
• Zoning Controversies: While zoning is a long-standing convention for ensuring regional balance, Sani warned against using rule changes to block perceived rivals. This undermines parliamentary stability and democratic legitimacy.

Practical Example: In 2023, the APC faced internal strife over the zoning of the Senate Presidency. Attempts to amend rules to disqualify certain candidates sparked public criticism and highlighted the party’s internal divisions.

The Role of the Legislature in Democratic Health

Sani emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy depends not only on executive leadership but also on the strength, independence, and credibility of the legislature. He compared the 10th Senate (under Godswill Akpabio) favorably to the 9th Senate (under Ahmad Lawan), but reserved his highest praise for the 8th Senate (under Bukola Saraki), which he described as the most independent since 1999.

Why Legislative Independence Matters

• Checks and Balances: An independent legislature can hold the executive accountable, preventing abuses of power.
• Policy Quality: Lawmakers who are free from executive pressure can craft better laws that reflect the will of the people.
• Public Trust: When the legislature is seen as independent, citizens are more likely to trust democratic institutions.

Practical Example: During the 8th Senate, the National Assembly rejected several executive requests, including a controversial loan request, and conducted high-profile investigations. This independence, while contentious, strengthened democratic oversight.

Sani’s Personal Ambition and the Bigger Picture

Sani defended his ambition to return to the Senate, arguing that Nigerians often focus too much on presidential elections while overlooking the importance of lawmakers. This is a valid point: legislative elections determine who makes the laws that affect daily life—from tax policy to education funding.

Key Takeaway: Voters should scrutinize legislative candidates as closely as they do presidential ones. A strong legislature is essential for a functioning democracy.

Conclusion: Lessons for the APC and Beyond

Senator Shehu Sani’s warning is not just for the APC—it is a universal lesson for any political party that aspires to long-term relevance. The PDP’s collapse was not sudden; it was the result of accumulated failures in internal democracy, member engagement, and leadership integrity. The APC must heed this warning by:

• Fostering internal democracy through transparent primaries and inclusive decision-making.
• Respecting party rules and avoiding self-serving amendments.
• Valuing all members, from grassroots volunteers to elected officials.
• Protecting legislative independence as a cornerstone of democratic governance.

As Nigeria approaches future elections, the health of its democracy will depend on whether parties like the APC can learn from the past—or repeat it.

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