The Peoples Democratic Party has said reconciliation efforts aimed at resolving its lingering internal crisis are making progress, assuring members and supporters that the party will participate fully in the forthcoming elections.
This was contained in a press briefing issued by the party’s National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, who said the reconciliation initiative followed the advisory of the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, which urged parties in the dispute to pursue peaceful settlement in order to save the party from further crisis and preserve its electoral prospects.
According to him, the party’s Board of Trustees, led by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, subsequently set up a high-powered committee to engage estranged members and find a lasting solution to the issues threatening the unity of the party.
Turaki explained that, in line with the peace process, the National Working Committee postponed the National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings earlier scheduled to hold, describing the move as a demonstration of good faith.
He said the party also toned down confrontational public communication in anticipation of a similar response from the opposing faction, but lamented that the gesture had instead been met with what he described as “hurtful rhetoric” and “derogatory statements.”
Despite this, the PDP chairman said the party remained committed to peace, noting that the implications of the crisis could be far-reaching, especially considering the timelines stipulated in the Electoral Act.
“I can unequivocally confirm that, as of today, leaders on both sides have broken the ice and are exploring various pathways towards a lasting resolution,” he said.
He therefore urged supporters of both camps to immediately refrain from inflammatory statements and actions that could jeopardise the peace efforts already underway.
Turaki also reassured aspirants under the PDP platform that the party would field candidates for all elective offices, in line with Article 6(2) of the party’s constitution.
He further appreciated Nigerians who had continued to show interest in the party and had registered through its e-registration platform, noting that the support from loyal members remained strong despite the ongoing internal challenges.
The PDP chairman stressed that democracy thrives not only on periodic elections but also on the presence of a strong opposition and active civil society capable of holding government accountable.
Describing the PDP as Nigeria’s surviving legacy party in the current democratic dispensation, Turaki said the party remained committed to defending and consolidating democracy, even from the opposition.
He also called on those in positions of authority to govern in line with the will of the people, insisting that ultimate power belongs to the citizens and must remain the focus of governance.
In the briefing, the National Working Committee also passed a unanimous vote of confidence on Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde for what it described as their resilience and steadfast leadership during the crisis.
Turaki concluded by assuring Nigerians that the PDP remains alive and ready to provide a credible platform for political contest at all levels in the coming elections
