The Nyesom Wike-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said it remains open to reconciliation as it pushes to unite the party ahead of upcoming elections.
The group stated that it has repeatedly invited the Taminu Turaki-led faction for peace talks aimed at rebuilding a stronger, united PDP. So far, the Turaki group has not responded and has given no reason for staying away.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, the National Publicity Secretary of the Wike faction, Jungudo Mohammed, said the purpose of the invitation is to end the current divisions in the party and show a united front.
He explained that the PDP has been facing serious internal disagreements recently, which led to the formation of two rival factions.
Mohammed added that these divisions are harmful to the party, especially at a time when political activities are intensifying nationwide.
He noted that even before the Court of Appeal in Ibadan issued its advisory on the crisis, the Wike faction had already been reaching out to the Turaki group.
According to him, the court’s recent statements, which reinforced earlier lower court rulings, make it even more urgent for the party to resolve its differences.
He stressed that time is no longer on the PDP’s side, pointing out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the election timetable. He also highlighted that the new Electoral Act has set stricter deadlines and requirements for political parties and aspirants.
Because of these time pressures, the Wike faction believes it cannot wait indefinitely for the Turaki group to respond.
Mohammed said the faction is now focused on moving forward, organising itself, and providing a clear platform for members who want to contest in future elections.
Still, he emphasized that the door for reconciliation remains open. He said the Wike faction is ready to engage in dialogue at any time, but success depends on the Turaki faction’s willingness to participate.
He concluded by saying that unity is crucial for the PDP to remain competitive and relevant in Nigeria’s political scene, but achieving it requires cooperation from all sides.
