Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced fresh moves to resolve its lingering internal crisis, revealing that reconciliation efforts are already underway following the intervention of the Court of Appeal.
Factional National Chairman of the party, Kabiru Turaki, SAN, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja, stating that leaders of opposing factions have “broken the ice” and are exploring pathways to lasting peace.
Turaki said the reconciliation process was initiated in line with the advisory of the Court of Appeal, which urged parties in the dispute to seek an amicable resolution in order to safeguard the party’s future and provide a viable platform for aspirants ahead of upcoming elections.
According to him, the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), led by former Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wabara, constituted a high-powered committee to engage aggrieved members and address contentious issues.
“In obedience to the advisory of the Court of Appeal, we immediately took steps to demonstrate good faith,” Turaki said.
He explained that the National Working Committee (NWC) postponed its National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings earlier scheduled, and toned down confrontational communications to ease tensions.
However, he lamented that the gesture had not been reciprocated, noting that the party has instead witnessed “hurtful rhetoric and derogatory statements” from the opposing camp.
Despite this, the PDP leadership said it remains committed to dialogue, given the urgency imposed by timelines in the Electoral Act.
Turaki appealed to all stakeholders to act in the overall interest of party members, especially aspirants preparing for future elections.
He also called on supporters across the country to de-escalate inflammatory statements to avoid undermining ongoing peace efforts.
The PDP chairman assured aspirants that the party would field candidates for all elective positions, in line with its constitution.
“To all aspirants who have stood with us, we assure you that our party will present candidates for all elective offices,” he said.
Turaki expressed appreciation to party supporters who have continued to register through the PDP’s e-registration platform despite the internal challenges, describing their loyalty as encouraging.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to democratic principles, stressing the need for a strong opposition to hold the government accountable.
“As Nigeria’s only surviving legacy party in this republic, we remain committed to defending and consolidating democracy,” he said.
The PDP also passed a vote of confidence in Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde for their leadership during the crisis.
Reassuring Nigerians, Turaki declared that the PDP remains strong and ready to participate in future elections, promising to provide a credible platform for democratic contest.
“The PDP is alive, and power must ultimately return to the people,” he said.
