The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has moved to ease months of internal tensions, with factions aligned to Seyi Makinde and Nyesom Wike initiating dialogue in a bid to stabilise the party before the 2027 general elections.
The development follows a prolonged period of infighting marked by legal disputes, public disagreements, and behind-the-scenes power struggles that raised concerns about the party’s cohesion and electoral readiness.
Speaking in Abuja, factional National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki disclosed that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), aligned with the Makinde camp, had taken initial steps toward reconciliation after intervention by the Board of Trustees led by Adolphus Wabara.
According to Turaki, a high-powered committee was constituted in line with advisory from the Court of Appeal in Ibadan to engage aggrieved members and reopen communication channels.
As part of confidence-building measures, the NWC postponed meetings of the National Executive Committee and National Caucus, while also moderating its public statements. However, Turaki noted that these gestures were not immediately reciprocated, citing continued use of inflammatory rhetoric by opposing voices.
Despite this, he confirmed a breakthrough.
“Leaders on both sides have now broken the ice and are exploring pathways towards a lasting resolution,” he said, urging party supporters nationwide to avoid actions that could derail the fragile peace process.
While reconciliation efforts are ongoing, multiple court cases involving the factions remain active. Turaki, however, signalled readiness to withdraw all legal actions if a political settlement is achieved.
“As soon as we reach agreeable terms, we will withdraw all cases across all courts to give peace a chance,” he stated.
The PDP also sought to reassure aspirants ahead of the next election cycle, affirming its commitment to field candidates for all elective positions despite the internal crisis.
Turaki emphasised that compromise would be essential to sustaining unity, adding that the party leadership is prepared to make necessary concessions to preserve its structure.
He further revealed that elements working against reconciliation from within the party had been identified and addressed, describing it as a critical step toward restoring internal stability.
Reaffirming its role in Nigeria’s political space, the PDP positioned itself as a key opposition force committed to democratic accountability and governance driven by the will of the people.
In a show of solidarity, the Turaki-led NWC passed a vote of confidence on Governors Makinde and Bala Mohammed, commending their roles during the crisis.
The party also noted sustained grassroots support, highlighting ongoing registrations through its digital platform despite recent turmoil.
With dialogue now underway, attention turns to whether the renewed engagement will translate into a lasting truce or if underlying divisions could resurface as the 2027 elections approach.
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