The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to reclaim Kaduna State in the upcoming 2027 gubernatorial elections, promising to bring an end to what they describe as the failed leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. This declaration was made during a press conference held by key party members, where they sharply criticized the current administration for its handling of the state’s security, economy, and infrastructure.

The PDP’s statement came as part of a broader effort to regain political ground in the northern region, with Kaduna serving as a significant battleground for both the ruling APC and the opposition. The party believes that the APC administration, led by Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has failed to address the pressing issues that have continued to plague the state, leaving its people vulnerable, economically strained, and without adequate leadership.

A Rebuilding Agenda

The PDP’s strategy for reclaiming Kaduna hinges on a promise of renewal, with party leaders outlining a detailed plan to restore the state to its former glory. Key to their plan is the restoration of security, the revitalization of the economy, and the reconstruction of critical infrastructure that has deteriorated under the current administration.

“We are not just talking about reclaiming Kaduna; we are talking about a complete overhaul of the state’s political, economic, and social landscape,” said the PDP’s candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial elections, who was present at the press conference. “The people of Kaduna deserve a government that is truly accountable, one that will prioritize the welfare of the citizens over political interests. The APC has had its time, and it has failed them.”

The PDP accused the APC of mismanaging the state’s resources, resulting in widespread poverty, unemployment, and an increased wave of insecurity. The party’s representatives pointed to the persistent attacks by bandits, the poor state of the education and healthcare sectors, and the lack of sustainable infrastructure development as key areas where the APC administration has not met expectations.

Addressing Security Concerns

One of the most pressing issues raised by the PDP is the security situation in Kaduna. The state has been at the center of an ongoing crisis, with frequent attacks by armed bandits and other criminal elements, leaving communities in constant fear. The party has vowed to prioritize security as part of its plan to restore peace and stability in the region.

“The APC administration has failed to protect the people of Kaduna. We have seen an increase in violence, and instead of finding solutions, the government has resorted to paying lip service to the issue,” said a PDP spokesperson. “We will work closely with the federal government, the Nigerian military, and local stakeholders to tackle the root causes of insecurity in Kaduna and ensure that all residents can go about their daily lives without fear.”

The PDP also pledged to invest in community policing and intelligence-driven strategies to combat the rising threat of banditry and insurgency. They further emphasized the importance of empowering local law enforcement agencies and providing them with the necessary resources to fight crime effectively.

Economic Revival

The PDP also promised to tackle the state’s economic challenges by introducing policies aimed at reviving agriculture, industrializing the state, and creating jobs for the youth. Kaduna, which has historically been a major agricultural and industrial hub in Nigeria, has seen a sharp decline in both sectors under the APC administration, according to the opposition party.

“Our economy is stagnating, and poverty is on the rise. Under the APC, many industries in Kaduna have been abandoned, and our farmers are struggling to survive. We will change that,” the PDP candidate assured. “We will prioritize the development of agriculture, revamp our local industries, and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.”

The PDP’s economic plan includes providing soft loans and grants to small-scale farmers, investing in agriculture technology, and promoting Kaduna’s natural resources. They also pledged to improve infrastructure, such as roads and electricity, to ensure that the state remains an attractive destination for investors.

Rebuilding Infrastructure

Infrastructure has long been a key issue in Kaduna, with many residents complaining about the state of roads, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. The PDP has committed to rebuilding and expanding the state’s infrastructure as part of its broader vision for development.

“We cannot continue to have a state where roads are in a deplorable state, hospitals are ill-equipped, and schools are underfunded,” said a member of the PDP’s campaign team. “Our goal is to bring real change, to ensure that our children have access to quality education, that our citizens have access to affordable healthcare, and that Kaduna’s infrastructure supports its growth and development.”

The PDP’s infrastructure plans include rehabilitating major roads and bridges, investing in healthcare facilities, and building modern schools that can provide quality education for future generations.

Holding the APC Accountable

While the PDP has made its case for the future, it also took the opportunity to critique the current administration’s handling of state matters. The party accused the APC of focusing too much on political gains at the expense of the people’s needs.

“Governor El-Rufai and the APC have been more concerned with consolidating power than addressing the real needs of the people,” said the PDP spokesperson. “From the mismanagement of state funds to the failure to implement critical reforms, it is clear that this government has not delivered on its promises.”

The PDP further accused the APC of fostering a culture of impunity, where public officials are not held accountable for their actions. They promised that under their leadership, there would be transparency, accountability, and good governance.

A Call for Unity

The PDP’s message was also one of unity, calling on all stakeholders—youth, women, civil society groups, and traditional leaders—to join hands in the collective effort to reclaim Kaduna. The party emphasized that the success of its vision for the state would depend on the active participation of all citizens.

“We are not here to fight anyone. Our mission is to rebuild Kaduna and make it a place where everyone can live in peace and prosperity. We will work with everyone who shares this vision, and together, we will bring positive change,” said the PDP candidate.

As the 2027 elections approach, the PDP’s bold pledge to reclaim Kaduna has set the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested race. With its focus on security, economic revival, and infrastructure development, the opposition party is positioning itself as the alternative to the APC’s administration, which it claims has failed to meet the expectations of the people.

In the coming years, the battle for Kaduna will not just be a political contest, but a test of which party can truly deliver the change that the state desperately needs. The PDP’s commitment to reclaiming the state has added fuel to the political fire, setting the stage for a major showdown in 2027.