Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has appealed to members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who left during its leadership crisis to return and support the party’s rebuilding process.
Representing Kogi Central, the lawmaker said the experience, institutional memory, and dedication of former members are crucial to repositioning the party and restoring its influence in national politics.
She made the appeal while addressing party stakeholders during the inauguration of the PDP National Convention Committee in Abuja.
Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed confidence that the inauguration signals a fresh start for the PDP, noting that the party’s representation in the Senate dropped significantly from 37 to just 6 senators due to internal conflicts.
“When I asked colleagues why they left, they mentioned internal disputes. I’m saying to them: trust me, it’s not greener on the other side. You’re welcome back to PDP,” she said.
Chairman of the Convention Committee, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, described the moment as both “consequential” and a “moment of truth” for the party.
He acknowledged the internal disputes and legal challenges that have affected the PDP but pointed to a recent appellate court ruling affirming the National Caretaker Working Committee as an opportunity for renewal.
Ikpeazu stressed the importance of unity and reconciliation, urging party members to set aside differences and work together.
“What PDP needs is honest reconciliation, rooted in truth, driven by sincerity, and sustained by mutual respect,” he said.
The committee has been tasked with organising a credible and transparent national convention aimed at producing a new National Working Committee that can reposition the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
What you should know
The PDP has faced significant internal crises in recent years, leading to defections and a weakened position in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Efforts like the inauguration of the National Convention Committee and calls for reconciliation signal attempts to rebuild unity and regain strength ahead of future elections.
The success of these efforts will likely determine the party’s competitiveness against the ruling APC in 2027.
