The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s main opposition party, finds itself grappling with internal discord and defections in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections. In a bid to address these challenges and forge a united front, the PDP Governors’ Forum, in consultation with former governors, convened a crucial meeting in Abuja. The primary objective was to chart a course towards reconciliation and strengthen the party’s foundation ahead of its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and the National Elective Convention slated for May and August respectively. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the forum established a seven-member reconciliation committee, entrusting former Senate President Bukola Saraki with the leadership of this critical endeavor. The committee’s mandate is to engage with aggrieved party members, bridge divides, and foster a sense of unity before the upcoming NEC meeting and convention. This move underscores the PDP’s commitment to internal cohesion and its determination to present a unified front in the political landscape.
The PDP’s internal struggles have been exacerbated by a series of events, including conflicts between Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, in Rivers State. Leadership disputes within the South-South zone and the prolonged vacancy of the National Secretary position, which has remained unfilled since December 2024, have further complicated the party’s internal dynamics. Despite interventions by various party organs, including the National Working Committee (NWC), the Board of Trustees (BoT), the NEC, and the Governors’ Forum, previous attempts at reconciliation have yielded limited success, and in some cases, even intensified existing divisions. The party’s leadership acknowledges the need for a more effective approach to address these underlying issues and rebuild trust among its members.
The growing discontent within the PDP has led to a wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), dealing a significant blow to the opposition party’s image and potentially jeopardizing its prospects in future elections. The most notable defection was that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, along with former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and other key officials, which occurred on April 23rd. This high-profile departure underscored the depth of the challenges facing the PDP and the urgency with which the party needs to address its internal divisions. The loss of prominent figures like Governor Oborevwori not only weakens the PDP’s presence in Delta State but also sends a concerning signal about the party’s ability to retain its members and maintain its political influence.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, emphasized that the meeting with former governors was convened specifically to address the ongoing issues plaguing the party and to find lasting solutions. He acknowledged the “existential issues” circulating in the media and within the party, underscoring the importance of addressing these concerns head-on. The forum’s decision to seek the counsel of former governors reflects a recognition of their experience and wisdom in navigating complex political situations. By incorporating their insights, the party hopes to gain a broader perspective on the challenges at hand and develop more effective strategies for reconciliation. Mohammed expressed optimism that the recommendations from the former governors would contribute significantly to the success of the upcoming NEC meeting and convention, thereby reassuring party supporters of the PDP’s commitment to unity and its ability to overcome internal differences.
The establishment of the seven-member reconciliation committee, headed by Bukola Saraki, signals the PDP’s determination to prioritize reconciliation and bridge the divides within the party. Governor Mohammed expressed confidence that Saraki’s leadership and the committee’s efforts would pave the way for a “peaceful and harmonious” NEC meeting and convention. The committee’s mandate is to engage with all stakeholders, listen to their grievances, and facilitate dialogue to find common ground. The selection of Saraki, a seasoned politician with extensive experience in navigating complex political landscapes, reflects the party’s commitment to entrusting this crucial task to a capable and respected leader. The success of the committee’s efforts will be critical to restoring unity within the PDP and positioning the party for future electoral success.
The defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the APC was a significant point of discussion during the meeting, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the need for decisive action. Governor Mohammed acknowledged that while such defections are a reality within a democratic system, they serve as a catalyst for the PDP to strengthen its internal structures and maintain a strong presence in all its chapters. He reiterated the party’s commitment to providing a level playing field for all members and ensuring that the upcoming convention is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. This commitment aims to reassure existing members and potentially attract new ones, emphasizing that the PDP remains a viable and competitive political force. The party’s leadership recognizes the importance of learning from past experiences and adapting its strategies to address the evolving political landscape and ensure its long-term viability. The gathering ultimately highlighted the PDP’s commitment to address internal challenges, foster unity, and rebuild its image as a strong and cohesive opposition party.
