The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of Tanimu Turaki, confirmed on Wednesday that a new reconciliation process has begun to unite the party’s various factions.
In a statement he personally signed, Turaki, whose group has the backing of the party’s governors, noted that leaders are currently looking into different ways to reach a permanent solution.
He called on followers to stay calm, stating, “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. We urge our supporters across the board to immediately de-escalate high-tempered communications and actions, so as not to jeopardise the ongoing peace efforts.”
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Addressing those seeking office, he gave an assurance that the party remains prepared for upcoming polls.
He said, “To all aspirants who have stood with us thus far, we assure you that, by the grace of God, our party will field candidates for all elective offices, in compliance with Article 6(2) of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017).”
Turaki expressed gratitude to citizens who have stayed loyal to the party, mentioning that “We also sincerely appreciate Nigerians across the country who have continued to show interest in our party and have registered via our e-registration platform, . Despite recent challenges, the faith of our core supporters remains unshaken. It is for them that we are making every effort to resolve the issues before us.”
He emphasized the party’s role in the country’s political landscape, adding, “As we are aware, democracy is not merely about the periodic conduct of elections; it also requires a virile opposition and an active civil society to hold government accountable. As Nigeria’s only surviving legacy party in the current republic, with the rare privilege of having led this country for 16 years, we remain committed to defending and consolidating our democracy, even as an opposition party.”
The party leader also sent a message to those currently in power, reminding them that “We call on those in authority to remain conscious that they are delegates of the people, and that their actions must, at all times, align with the will of the people. Ultimate power resides with the people; it must therefore remain the centrepiece of governance.”
Before concluding, Turaki highlighted the NWC’s support for specific party leaders, noting, “Before I conclude, let me convey the NWC’s unanimous vote of confidence passed on Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde for their resilience and steadfast leadership in the face of recent challenges.”
He finished by promising that the party remains a strong contender, saying, “Let me end by reassuring Nigerians that the PDP is alive and will participate in the forthcoming elections, offering a credible platform for robust political contests at all levels, so that power may truly return to the people.”
