ABUJA: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formed a reconciliation committee led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki to address internal disputes within the party ahead of its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the end of May.
The development was announced following a strategy session on Sunday night at the Abuja residence of Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed.
The meeting brought together several influential party figures, including Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, though he declined to speak to the press.
Also in attendance were Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Peter Mbah (Enugu), as well as former governors Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Achike Udenwa (Imo), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa).
The PDP Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, former Caretaker Committee Chairman Ahmed Makarfi, and other members of the party’s National Working Committee also participated.
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Governor Mohammed told journalists that the meeting aimed to draw from the experience of past leaders to resolve internal tensions and lay the groundwork for a peaceful NEC session and eventual national convention.
When asked about recent defections, including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Mohammed downplayed the concerns, suggesting such developments could ultimately strengthen the PDP.
He noted the party is strategizing to reclaim influence in states where it once held power.
The PDP has been grappling with internal divisions since the 2023 general elections, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing rift between former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Sim Fubara.
Despite efforts by various party organs, including the NWC, Board of Trustees, NEC, and Governors’ Forum, no resolution has been reached.
Tensions within the party further escalated on April 23, when Oborevwori, Okowa, and other Delta State officials formally joined the APC.
Around the same time, three senators from Kebbi State, Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, and Garba Maidoki, also defected to the ruling party after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
These high-profile defections have sparked concerns among opposition leaders, who warn of a potential drift toward one-party dominance in Nigeria.
