PDP leaders move to reconcile after Appeal Court ruling

Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including governors and allies of the Nyesom Wike camp, have begun reconciliation talks following a ruling by the Court of Appeal of Nigeria that nullified the party’s November 2025 national convention.

Sources within the party disclosed that both factions are holding marathon meetings to explore options such as forming a harmonised caretaker committee or organising a unity convention to stabilise the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The court ruling upheld an earlier decision of the Federal High Court of Nigeria which declared that the processes leading to the PDP convention held in Ibadan violated provisions of the Electoral Act, the Nigerian Constitution, and the party’s constitution. The convention had produced Taminu Turaki and other members of the National Working Committee.

The judgment has intensified internal consultations within the party, with leaders seeking ways to prevent a prolonged crisis that could weaken the PDP’s chances in the 2027 polls.

Acting National Chairman Mohammed Abdulrahman and Acting National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu of the Wike-backed caretaker committee urged members to remain united and support plans for a national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30 in Abuja.

They assured party faithful that the convention would be transparent and credible and would produce a new National Working Committee in line with electoral guidelines.

Meanwhile, former Senate President Bukola Saraki called on PDP leaders to put aside personal interests, respect the court ruling, and work toward a new national convention in compliance with the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Saraki warned that prolonged litigation could jeopardise the chances of PDP members seeking to contest elections under the party’s platform in 2027.

Similarly, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees Adolphus Wabara described the court decision as an opportunity for the party to rebuild and reposition itself.

Also speaking, Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State, acknowledged the crisis as a challenging moment for the PDP but expressed confidence that the party would overcome its internal disputes.

Party officials say discussions on reconciliation will continue, with leaders aiming to ensure the PDP remains united and able to present candidates for the 2027 general elections.