In a strategic move to address internal discontent and reposition itself ahead of its forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed former Senate President Bukola Saraki to head a reconciliation committee.
This decision was reached during a high-level meeting held at the Abuja residence of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum. The gathering took place on Sunday night and featured a mix of current and former governors and senior party figures.
Among those present were Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Peter Mbah (Enugu). Former governors Liyel Imoke, Achike Udenwa, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Okezie Ikpeazu, Seriake Dickson, and Udom Emmanuel were also in attendance.
Notably, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, also joined the meeting but declined to address journalists.
The party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun, and former Caretaker Committee Chairman, Ahmed Markafi, were present alongside members of the National Working Committee.
Governor Bala Mohammed, while briefing the press, emphasized the importance of unity and experience-sharing in resolving the party’s ongoing challenges, especially ahead of the NEC meeting and the national convention slated for later in the year. He expressed optimism that the involvement of past leaders would help ensure a peaceful convention and reposition the party for future electoral success.
Reacting to recent defections, including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mohammed downplayed concerns, suggesting the party would emerge stronger. He added that efforts were underway to reclaim PDP strongholds and consolidate its presence in states where it currently governs.
The PDP has been grappling with internal strife since the 2023 general elections, with the crisis between Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, in Rivers State further compounding the turmoil. Despite multiple attempts by party organs to broker peace, a lasting resolution remains elusive.
What you should know
Bukola Saraki’s appointment signals a renewed effort by the PDP to rally its ranks and mitigate the exodus of key figures amid fears of Nigeria sliding into a de facto one-party system under the APC.
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