Saraki to PDP: Cancel national convention, set up caretaker c’ttee to avert crisis

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has urged the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to suspend its planned National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

Saraki, a former two-term governor of Kwara State, warned that proceeding with the planned convention could deepen the party’s internal crisis.

The former Senate President made the call after a meeting with members of the PDP Board of Trustees (BOT) Reconciliation Team led by Wakili Adamawa, Hassan Adamu, who visited him on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, to seek his advice on restoring peace within the PDP.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Saraki described the engagement as “meaningful and incisive,” noting that they discussed critical issues affecting the unity and stability of the PDP.

The former Senate President expressed regret that, despite the “selfless and arduous efforts” by stakeholders to resolve internal disputes, the proposed convention had become enmeshed in political and legal controversies.

“This does not bode well for our party or for Nigeria’s democracy in general,” Saraki said.

He emphasised that political disagreements cannot be resolved in the courts, insisting that reconciliation must be achieved through dialogue and consensus.

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“Affairs of political parties are best resolved amicably with all sides seated round the table. Legal battles will only continue to cause friction,” he stated.

Saraki also raised concerns over conflicting court orders relating to the validity of the upcoming convention, warning that the uncertainty surrounding the process could invalidate its outcome and further erode public confidence in the party.

“As a leader, I cannot, in all good conscience, take or be part of any action that will jeopardize the aspirations of our people,” he added.

To restore order and rebuild confidence, Saraki proposed the immediate establishment of a caretaker committee to manage the party’s affairs temporarily.

The former governor added: “This must be done within the next two days.

“It is the path to true reconciliation and stability of the party. It will also assure our members, especially those with electoral ambitions, that their nominations will not be nullified.”

Saraki warned that going ahead with the Ibadan convention “will only serve to further fuel the present crisis,” calling it “a waste of effort” that lacks his support.

“It’s not too late to find a win-win solution,” he stressed.

The Star