Nigeria – Fresh efforts are underway to resolve the leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as rival factions move toward reconciliation following months of internal conflict.
Sources within the party indicate that both camps have begun informal communication, with a full reconciliation meeting expected after the Sallah festivities.
The PDP has been embroiled in a crisis since its elective National Convention held on November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State. The convention, backed by PDP governors under the leadership of Bala Mohammed and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, produced Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and other members of the National Working Committee (NWC).
Following the convention, former National Chairman Umar Damagum handed over leadership to the Turaki-led NWC, effectively ending his tenure on December 9, 2025.
The situation escalated after the convention led to the expulsion of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and his allies. In response, Wike’s camp announced a parallel National Working Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, deepening divisions within the party.
However, a recent Court of Appeal judgment nullifying the Ibadan convention has significantly altered the dynamics, prompting both factions to consider reconciliation.
The peace efforts are reportedly being coordinated by the PDP Board of Trustees, chaired by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara.
According to a source familiar with the discussions, the Turaki faction has set up a seven-member reconciliation committee, which met on March 17 to outline its demands ahead of talks with Wike’s camp.
The source added that Bala Mohammed is expected to lead the Turaki faction during the negotiations, while Wike’s camp has reportedly selected former Senate President Bukola Saraki to head its own committee.
Both sides are expected to meet after the Sallah celebrations to harmonise their positions. The outcome of the talks is expected to be presented before the Court of Appeal in Ibadan for ratification.
If successful, the agreement reached by both factions will be binding on all PDP members and could mark a turning point in resolving the party’s prolonged internal crisis.
