Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stirred political reactions after joking that he “did not know the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was still in existence” while reacting to an opposition victory in a recent election, drawing attention to the continued rivalry between the ruling APC and opposition parties.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a light-hearted but politically charged remark about the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying he “did not know the PDP was still in existence” while reacting to the outcome of a recent election won by an opposition candidate. His comment has generated fresh debate over the state of Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Akpabio made the remark while addressing journalists after the election results were announced. The Senate President, a leading figure in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), used the opportunity to mock the PDP despite the party’s candidate recording a victory in the contest.
Although delivered humorously, the statement quickly attracted reactions across political circles and social media, with supporters of both the APC and PDP interpreting it differently.
The comment comes at a time when political parties are intensifying preparations for the 2027 general elections. The APC continues to project confidence about retaining power, while opposition parties are working to strengthen their structures and improve their electoral fortunes.
Political observers say exchanges of this nature are likely to become more frequent as campaign activities gather momentum across the country.
Neither the national leadership of the PDP nor other major opposition parties had issued an official response to Akpabio’s remark as of the time of filing this report.
The Senate President has also not released any further clarification regarding the statement.
With political activities gradually intensifying ahead of the next general elections, comments from key political figures are expected to continue shaping public discourse. Akpabio’s latest remark has once again highlighted the sharp rivalry between Nigeria’s ruling party and the opposition.