The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) embarked on a significant revitalization effort with the induction of 40 new members into its Board of Trustees (BoT). This move, spearheaded by former Senate President and BoT Chairman Adolphus Wabara, aimed to reinvigorate the party’s leadership and strategic direction following a period of internal challenges and declining participation within the existing BoT ranks. The induction ceremony, held in Abuja, welcomed prominent figures such as former Governors Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano), Lucky Igbinedion (Edo), and Babangida Aliyu (Niger), along with other influential party members like former ministers and a former governorship candidate. This infusion of new blood was designed to address the concerning trend of inactivity among a significant portion of the existing BoT membership, injecting renewed energy and focus into the party’s operations.
Wabara underscored the importance of the BoT as the moral compass of the PDP, emphasizing its constitutional role in upholding ethical standards, guiding policy decisions, resolving internal conflicts, and safeguarding the party’s assets. He stressed that the new members were not merely joining a ceremonial body but were entrusted with the responsibility of steering the PDP back to its position of prominence in Nigerian politics. The chairman called upon the inductees to leverage their experience and unwavering loyalty to the party’s core principles to navigate the evolving political landscape and restore the PDP’s status as a leading force in the nation. He emphasized the demanding nature of the task ahead while expressing confidence that through unity, determination, and a steadfast commitment to democratic ideals, the party would overcome its challenges.
The induction ceremony served not only as a celebration of new beginnings but also as a reaffirmation of the PDP’s commitment to its founding principles and its vision for a more prosperous and democratic Nigeria. Wabara reminded the newly inaugurated members that their appointment was a call to service, a call to uphold the party’s integrity and unity. He urged them to serve with transparency, dedication, and a focus on the welfare of both the party and the nation. The chairman’s message was one of hope and resilience, emphasizing that the PDP was far from defunct and that with collective effort, it could regain its former glory. He called for a united front to build a stronger, more inclusive, and progressive party capable of achieving new heights of success and relevance in the Nigerian political arena.
Eddy Olafeso, former National Vice Chairman (South West), speaking on behalf of the newly inducted BoT members, echoed Wabara’s sentiments, describing the event as a fresh start and a regeneration of the PDP’s illustrious past. He outlined the goal of repositioning the party for upcoming elections, bringing in fresh perspectives, individuals, and a renewed sense of purpose. Olafeso highlighted the combined experience and leadership qualities within the revitalized BoT, expressing confidence in their ability to steer the party towards a brighter future for Nigeria. He emphasized their long-standing commitment to the PDP and their unwavering dedication to restoring the party’s former glory, where citizens could enjoy access to quality education, security, and a thriving economy.
Olafeso’s address resonated with the core values of the PDP, emphasizing the party’s commitment to good governance and the well-being of the Nigerian people. He drew a stark contrast between the current state of affairs and the PDP’s vision for a better Nigeria, where insecurity and economic hardship are relics of the past. This message of hope and renewal underscored the party’s determination to offer a viable alternative to the current political landscape and to work towards a future where the needs of the citizens are prioritized. The induction of the new BoT members, therefore, represented not just a change in personnel but a renewed commitment to the party’s core values and a strategic move to regain its position as a leading force in Nigerian politics.
The acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Damagum, congratulated the new BoT members and emphasized their critical role in guiding the party’s affairs. He highlighted the constitutional mandate of the BoT as the conscience of the party, entrusted with the responsibility of not only leading the PDP but also serving as a beacon of democracy for Africa. Damagum, represented by Acting National Secretary Setonji Koshoedo, pledged the full support of the National Working Committee (NWC) to the BoT, acknowledging their reliance on the board’s wisdom and guidance. This collaborative approach between the NWC and the revitalized BoT signaled a united front within the PDP, reinforcing the party’s commitment to internal cohesion and strategic alignment in its pursuit of political success. The induction ceremony, therefore, marked a significant step towards revitalizing the PDP and positioning it for a stronger and more impactful role in the Nigerian political landscape.
