Democratic People's Party: History and Political Impact in Nigeria
The Democratic People's Party (DPP) emerged as a distinct voice in the Nigerian political landscape during the mid-2000s. Established in 2006, the party was formed by a faction of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) that had become aggrieved with the existing leadership and direction of their former organization.
Designed with a broad political base, the DPP centered its platform on several key societal pillars. The party advocated for economic deregulation—the process of removing government regulations to encourage market competition—while simultaneously championing the protection of human rights and calling for increased government funding for essential public services, specifically health care and education.
Key Facts
- Founded: 2006 by a faction of the All Nigeria Peoples Party.
- Core Goals: Economic deregulation, human rights, and increased funding for education and health care.
- 2007 Presidential Candidate: Attahiru Bafarawa.
- Founding Chairman: Jeremiah Useni.
- Legislative Performance: Failed to secure any seats in the Senate or House of Representatives in the 2007 elections.
The 2007 Presidential Election Performance
The DPP's first major test came during the presidential elections held on April 21, 2007. The race was dominated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), but several other parties competed for the presidency.
In the final tally, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua of the PDP secured a decisive victory. The DPP candidate, Attahiru Bafarawa, faced a challenging electoral environment and finished last among the primary contenders.
| Candidate | Political Party | Votes Received |
|---|---|---|
| Umaru Musa Yar'Adua | Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) | 24,638,063 |
| Muhammadu Buhari | All Nigeria People's Party (ANPP) | 6,605,299 |
| Atiku Abubakar | Action Congress (AC) | 2,637,848 |
| Orji Uzor Kalu | Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) | 608,803 |
| Attahiru Bafarawa | Democratic People's Party (DPP) | 289,324 |
Leadership Transitions and Internal Conflict
The internal governance of the DPP was marked by significant volatility. The party's founding chairman, Jeremiah Useni, brought a complex history to the role, having previously served as a minister under the military government of General Sani Abacha.
Useni's tenure ended in controversy in December 2008, when he was suspended indefinitely. This action followed his public statement claiming that the death of Ken Sara-Wiwa was a "national sacrifice."
Following the suspension, Biodun Ogunbiyi took over the leadership. Ogunbiyi was critical of Useni's tenure, specifically pointing to a lack of leadership that resulted in the party's failure to win any seats in either the Senate or the House of Representatives during the April 2007 elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Democratic People's Party founded?
The party was founded in 2006 by a faction of the All Nigeria Peoples Party.
What were the primary policy goals of the DPP?
The DPP supported economic deregulation, the protection of human rights, and increased funding for education and health care.
How did Attahiru Bafarawa perform in the 2007 election?
Attahiru Bafarawa received 289,324 votes, placing him last among the main presidential candidates in the April 21, 2007, election.
Why was Jeremiah Useni suspended from the party?
Jeremiah Useni was suspended in December 2008 after stating that the death of Ken Sara-Wiwa was a national sacrifice.
Did the DPP win any legislative seats in 2007?
No, the party failed to win any seats in the Senate or the House of Representatives during the April 2007 elections.