Turaki: PDP reconciling with Wike faction, will field candidates for all elective offices
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Kabiru Turaki, says it has begun reconciliation efforts with the faction aligned with Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Turaki said the move followed guidance from the court of appeal in Ibadan, Oyo state, which advised all parties involved in the dispute to pursue a peaceful resolution.
He disclosed that the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), chaired by Adolphus Wabara, has set up a committee to engage aggrieved members and address longstanding internal issues.
Turaki also noted that the National Working Committee (NWC) postponed meetings of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the national caucus as a goodwill gesture aimed at easing tensions within the party.
However, he expressed concern that the gesture had not been reciprocated, alleging that the opposing faction continued to make “derogatory statements” that intensified the crisis.
Despite this, Turaki said both sides have now “broken the ice” and are actively exploring ways to resolve their differences ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“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 members and supporters to refrain from inflammatory comments that could undermine the reconciliation process.
Turaki further assured party aspirants that the PDP would field candidates for all elective offices in line with its constitution.
“To all aspirants who have stood with us thus far, we assure you that, by the grace of God, our party will field candidates for all elective positions,” he said.
He added that the party remains mindful of the timelines stipulated in the Electoral Act and is working to resolve its internal crisis without jeopardising its participation in upcoming elections.
Turaki commended Nigerians who continue to register on the party’s e-platform, describing it as a sign of sustained public confidence.
He also described the PDP as a “legacy party” committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through credible opposition.
In addition, he announced that the NWC had passed a vote of confidence in Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi state, and Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, for their leadership during the crisis.
Earlier this month, the court of appeal in Abuja nullified the PDP national convention held on November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan. The court upheld a prior ruling of the federal high court, which had restrained the party from conducting the convention.
The convention had been organised by the faction backed by Makinde and Mohammed.