By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may be inching away from a major internal rupture as loyalists of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have commenced reconciliation talks aimed at stabilising the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development comes after months of escalating tensions that had played out in courtrooms, the media and within the party’s internal structures, raising serious concerns about the PDP’s cohesion and its preparedness as Nigeria’s main opposition party.
However, recent moves by key stakeholders suggest a strategic shift from confrontation to dialogue in what party leaders now describe as a necessary step to prevent further damage to the party’s future.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, the factional National Chairman of the PDP, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), disclosed that the National Working Committee (NWC) aligned with the Makinde camp had initiated steps to de-escalate the crisis following the intervention of the party’s Board of Trustees led by former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wabara.
According to him, the reconciliation process followed the advisory of the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan.
“In obedience to the advisory of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan, the Board of Trustees constituted a high-powered committee to interface with our estranged party members,” Turaki stated.
As part of confidence-building measures, he explained that the NWC postponed crucial meetings of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the National Caucus, while also moderating its public statements to reduce tension.
He noted, however, that the same gesture was not initially reciprocated, alleging that the opposing camp continued what he described as the “weaponisation of hurtful rhetoric” and the use of derogatory remarks.
Despite this, Turaki said there are now encouraging signs of progress.
“I can unequivocally confirm that, as of today, leaders on both sides have broken the ice and are exploring various pathways towards a lasting resolution,” he said.
He urged party supporters across the country to avoid inflammatory comments or actions capable of derailing the fragile peace process.
While political dialogue has begun, Turaki admitted that legal disputes connected to the crisis are still ongoing in different courts, including the Court of Appeal. Nevertheless, he stressed that the party is prepared to discontinue litigation if a political settlement is achieved.
“As soon as we reach agreeable terms, we will willingly withdraw all cases, whether at the Federal High Court, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court, or elsewhere, to give peace a chance,” he assured.
The Merit Newspaper reports that the PDP leadership also sought to calm the fears of party aspirants who have been worried about the possible impact of the crisis on their political ambitions.
“To all aspirants who have stood with us thus far, we assure you that our party will field candidates for all elective offices,” Turaki said.
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Emphasising the importance of unity, he admitted that compromise would be inevitable if the party must survive the current turbulence.
“We are willing to bend as far as our necks and backs allow. PDP will not die,” he declared.
Turaki also revealed that certain individuals within the party had allegedly worked against reconciliation efforts but said such elements had now been identified and dealt with.
“From last night, these two elements have been identified and flushed out,” he added.
Beyond the immediate crisis, the party reaffirmed its position as a major opposition platform committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and holding those in power accountable.
“As Nigeria’s only surviving legacy party, we remain committed to defending and consolidating our democracy,” he said.
He further emphasised the supremacy of the electorate in a democratic system, noting that governance must always reflect the will of the people.
“Ultimate power resides with the people; it must therefore remain the centrepiece of governance,” he added.
In what appeared to be a move to demonstrate internal solidarity, the Turaki-led NWC also passed a vote of confidence on Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed for their roles during the crisis.
The party also expressed appreciation to Nigerians who have continued to identify with it, particularly those registering through its online membership platform, noting that support remains strong despite recent internal challenges.
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With both factions now showing readiness to engage in dialogue and compromise, political observers say the next few months will determine whether the reconciliation efforts will produce a lasting peace or whether underlying divisions could resurface as the countdown to the 2027 elections gathers momentum.
