Fresh efforts to restore unity within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are underway, as key stakeholders from opposing blocs have resumed reconciliation talks ahead of the party’s scheduled national convention later this month.
The renewed dialogue comes amid lingering tensions within the party, with leaders now showing signs of willingness to set aside differences in the overall interest of the PDP and Nigeria’s democratic process.
One of the leading voices in the reconciliation move, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, confirmed that discussions between the factions began on Tuesday night and are already yielding encouraging results. According to him, the move followed guidance from the Court of Appeal, which had earlier advised aggrieved parties to explore peaceful resolution to avoid further crisis within the party.
Turaki explained that the PDP’s Board of Trustees, under the leadership of Adolphus Wabara, set up a high-level committee to engage with dissatisfied members and find a common ground that would reposition the party ahead of future elections.
As part of efforts to demonstrate sincerity, the party’s National Working Committee reportedly postponed key meetings, including the National Executive Committee and National Caucus sessions. Leaders also toned down public rhetoric, creating a more conducive atmosphere for dialogue.
However, Turaki noted that while his group had taken steps to ease tensions, responses from the other side had not been entirely reciprocal, with some members still engaging in heated exchanges and issuing critical statements.
Despite this, he expressed optimism that progress is being made.
According to him, leaders on both sides have now “broken the ice” and are exploring practical ways to resolve their differences. He urged party supporters across the country to remain calm and avoid actions that could disrupt the fragile peace process.
Turaki also reassured party members and aspirants that the PDP remains committed to participating fully in upcoming elections, noting that the party would field candidates for all elective positions in line with its constitution.
He emphasized that beyond elections, the PDP still sees itself as a key pillar in Nigeria’s democracy, stressing the importance of a strong opposition and active civic engagement in holding government accountable.
In his words, reconciliation is not just necessary—it is achievable. He added that while disagreements are natural in politics, choosing peace ultimately strengthens the party more than prolonged conflict.
He further revealed that once an agreement is reached, all ongoing court cases between the factions would be withdrawn to pave the way for lasting unity.
While the reconciliation efforts continue, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports suggesting that the party is divided.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects, Wike maintained that the PDP remains one united entity, despite internal disagreements.
According to him, differences in opinion do not translate to a split within the party.
“There is only one PDP,” he said, noting that while some members may be dissatisfied, it does not amount to factionalisation.
He also pointed out that reconciliation efforts can continue alongside preparations for the national convention, stressing that both processes are not mutually exclusive.
The ongoing crisis within the PDP has its roots in disputes over leadership and the legitimacy of previous party conventions. Earlier, a convention held in Ibadan had produced a set of national officers, but this was later challenged in court.
The situation escalated when another group aligned with Wike set up a caretaker committee to steer the party’s affairs temporarily, further deepening divisions.
Legal battles followed, culminating in a ruling by the Court of Appeal which nullified the Ibadan convention, citing violations of relevant laws and party guidelines.
Beyond party politics, Wike also used the opportunity to highlight ongoing development efforts within the Federal Capital Territory. He expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of several infrastructure projects, including road construction and housing developments.
He noted that prudent financial management and strong political will have been key to the administration’s achievements, adding that projects are only awarded based on available resources to ensure timely completion.
Wike also credited the progress recorded in the FCT to the support of President Bola Tinubu, whose commitment to infrastructure development, he said, has made a significant difference.
As reconciliation talks continue within the PDP, many observers believe the coming days will be critical in determining whether the party can overcome its internal challenges and present a united front ahead of its national convention.
For now, the message from both sides appears cautiously optimistic: dialogue is ongoing, tensions are easing, and the path to unity—though delicate—remains open.
