The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears to be pulling back from the serious crisis that had threatened to tear it apart, as factions loyal to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike have begun discussions to prevent the party from collapsing ahead of the 2027 elections.
The dispute had raised doubts about the party’s readiness and ability to actively participate in the next general elections.
But hope seems to be returning, with reports that both factions are now willing to resolve their differences and restore peace within the party.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, factional PDP National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, said the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), which aligns with the Makinde camp, has taken the first steps to ease tensions and reopen dialogue, following intervention by the Board of Trustees led by Senator Adolphus Wabara.
“In obedience to the advisory of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan, the Board of Trustees constituted a high-powered committee to interface with our estranged party members,” Turaki said.
As a first sign of goodwill, the NWC postponed key meetings of the National Executive Committee and National Caucus and softened its public messages. However, the party claimed it did not receive the same gesture in return, citing what it described as the ‘weaponisation of hurtful rhetoric’ and ‘derogatory statements’.
Still, Turaki said there has been a noticeable change.
“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 appealed to party supporters across the country to keep calm, warning that careless words or actions could undermine the fragile progress.
“As soon as we reach agreeable terms, we will willingly withdraw all cases, whether at the Federal High Court, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court, or elsewhere, to give peace a chance,” he added.
Turaki also sought to reassure party aspirants, many of whom have been anxiously following the crisis.
“To all aspirants who have stood with us thus far, we assure you that our party will field candidates for all elective offices,” he said.
“We are willing to bend as far as our necks and backs allow… PDP will not die,” he added.
He further hinted at internal resistance to the reconciliation process, saying some people within the party had been working against peace, but noted that those challenges are now being addressed.
“From last night, these two elements have been identified and flushed out,” he said.
“As Nigeria’s only surviving legacy party, we remain committed to defending and consolidating our democracy,” he said.
Turaki also sent a wider message to those in leadership, emphasizing that power must always reflect the will of the people.
“Ultimate power resides with the people; it must therefore remain the centrepiece of governance,” he said.
Showing signs of internal unity, the Turaki-led NWC passed a vote of confidence on Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, commending their roles during the crisis.
With both camps now talking and showing willingness to compromise, the key question remains whether this fragile opening will lead to lasting peace or if divisions will resurface as the 2027 elections draw closer.
