The Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held a crucial meeting emphasizing the importance of party unity amidst ongoing internal conflicts. Chairman Adolphus Wabara reiterated the need for all party members to respond positively to summons from the newly established Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees. He specifically mentioned discrepancies observed during the recent State Congresses, which have exacerbated existing tensions within the party since the aftermath of the 2023 elections. The PDP has faced significant challenges since Iyorchia Ayu’s removal led to Umar Damagum assuming the role of acting National Chairman. His leadership has been criticized for not implementing necessary reforms to address these issues.
The internal strife within the PDP heightened after the Damagum-led National Working Committee transferred control of the Rivers State structure to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, amidst ongoing political conflicts with the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. This power struggle, combined with the crises erupting during the State Congresses held in August and September, has prompted calls for enhanced oversight and reconciliation within the party. In response, the National Working Committee initiated the establishment of both the Reconciliation and the Disciplinary Committees, led by former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Ikimi, respectively.
Wabara urged party members to fully cooperate with both committees to ensure unity and strategic planning for the PDP’s future success. He described the party as a family and warned against allowing the current ruling party to achieve dominance without opposition, hinting at the risk of Nigeria devolving into a one-party state. Emphasizing the importance of constitutional adherence and the rule of law, Wabara called for unity and collective responsibility, asserting that the future of the PDP hinges on the integrity and collaboration of its members.
The board further highlighted discrepancies reported during the congresses, including instances where congresses were not conducted according to established guidelines, some even failing to occur as scheduled. Wabara expressed serious concern over these issues and called on the National Working Committee to resolve them promptly. He insisted on the necessity for transparency and fairness, proposing that new dates for congresses be set where needed, ensuring all party members can participate in the democratic process. He reminded members that the strength of the party lies in its ability to resolve internal conflicts, underscoring that unity is paramount for long-term success.
Acting National Chairman Damagum recognized the challenges faced by the party and praised the Board of Trustees for their unwavering commitment to PDP’s growth despite adversities. He welcomed the gathering as a vital step in addressing pressing matters concerning the party. While acknowledging the undesirable conditions in Nigeria, he reinforced the need for party members to rally together, emphasizing that collective action is fundamental for navigating through difficult times. This spirit of collaboration and the prioritization of internal stability were echoed by Wabara as essential for the PDP to reclaim its position as a leading political force in Nigeria.
As the PDP prepares for future elections and aims to strengthen its internal structure, the resolutions and actions taken in this critical period will play a significant role in determining its path forward. The meetings scheduled, including the National Executive Council Committee gathering on October 24, represent strategic initiatives to align all members towards a common goal. Wabara’s closing remarks encapsulated the sentiments of responsibility and commitment to the foundational principles of the PDP, urging members to work together towards a shared vision of unity and resilience for the party, which he believes remains a beacon of hope for many Nigerians.
