Renowned political activist, Hajiya Farida Umar, has dismissed reports linking her to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, insisting that her loyalty remains with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking during a visit to the PDP State Secretariat in Lafia on Monday, Farida clarified that her name was wrongly included in the ADC steering committee without her consent.
She stressed that she never defected and has no intention of abandoning the PDP.
“They invited me to one of their meetings in Akwanga. I listened, but PDP hasn’t done badly enough to be deserted. Before I knew it, they inscribed my name as a member of the ADC steering committee without my approval. That was misleading. I am not part of their coalition,” she stated.
The PDP stalwart, who contested for the National Ex-Officio position but stepped down for Hon. Beauty Aliyu Sudar at the July convention in Jos, said her political ideology is rooted in the PDP and described recent defections as a sign of “political weakness and lack of democratic spirit.”
On the issue of loyalty and internal party struggles, Farida pledged to work with whoever emerges as the PDP governorship candidate in 2027.
“I will support whoever emerges as the PDP gubernatorial candidate in 2027, whether it is Dr. David Ombugadu or anyone else. In return, I expect the same loyalty if I contest.
Religion should never be a factor; what matters is capacity and commitment.”
She also criticized frequent defections by Nigerian politicians, referencing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“Jumping from one party to another will not bring results. Every time you defect, you lose followers — whether you eventually return or not. That is why I remain consistent,” she said.
Farida, who hails from Chiroma/Adogi Ward, one of the flashpoints of the 2023 gubernatorial election, vowed to strengthen PDP’s grassroots presence ahead of 2027.
“We are mobilizing women groups, visiting wards, and engaging real voters. We will not allow the rigging of 2023 to repeat itself in 2027.
The ADC coalition is no threat to PDP in Nasarawa State.
The umbrella is deeply rooted in the grassroots.”
She concluded by assuring her supporters that she remains firmly in the PDP and is committed to ensuring the party’s victory in the next election.
