Saraki leads PDP reconciliation team ahead of NEC, convention
In a strategic move to consolidate internal unity, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, as head of a high-powered seven-member reconciliation committee. The decision comes as the party prepares for its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27 and its national convention slated for August.
Announcing the committee after a closed-door meeting in Abuja on Sunday night, PDP Governors Forum Chairman and Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, said the initiative aims to reconcile aggrieved party stakeholders and strengthen internal cohesion.
“We discussed existential matters affecting our party. This is the time to heal, mend fences, and move forward in unity,” Governor Mohammed stated.
Committee Mandate: Bridge factions, consolidate base
The Saraki-led committee includes Governors Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Peter Mbah (Enugu), alongside former Governors Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia). Their core task is to engage disenchanted members, address pending litigations, and chart a path for peaceful deliberations at the upcoming NEC and convention.
Party reaffirms unity despite defections
Reacting to recent defections—including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s move to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—Mohammed maintained that such setbacks are being met with strategic countermeasures.
“Defections are part of democracy. What matters is how we respond. This meeting signals our collective resolve to rebuild and reclaim lost ground,” he affirmed.
He added that the PDP remains committed to fielding viable candidates, strengthening its structures, and offering a level playing field across its chapters.
Strategic Dialogue Among Party Elders
The reconciliation meeting, held at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, drew attendance from PDP governors, ex-governors, National Working Committee members, and influential party elders. Notable attendees included FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, former Governors Sule Lamido, Gabriel Suswam, Samuel Ortom, Liyel Imoke, and Sen. Aminu Tambuwal, among others.
Acting PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, and National Organizing Secretary Umar Bature also participated in the discussions.
Governor Mohammed emphasized that the PDP is not pointing fingers at the APC for its internal troubles but acknowledged that external pressures may be contributing factors.
“There are misgivings among members, and we’re not here to sweep issues under the carpet. This effort is about accountability and renewal,” he said.
As the PDP looks to rebound ahead of 2027, the reconciliation committee’s effectiveness will likely shape the party’s national outlook and electoral readiness.
