By Ayo Kehinde
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has recorded a breakthrough in resolving its internal rift, as rival factions reopen peace talks in a renewed push to stabilise the party and position it strongly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development marks a turning point after months of heightened tensions that saw camps loyal to Seyi Makinde and Nyesom Wike locked in disputes spanning courtrooms, public exchanges, and behind-the-scenes political manoeuvring, raising concerns over the party’s cohesion.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, factional PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, said the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) had initiated deliberate steps to ease tensions and rebuild trust among aggrieved stakeholders.
He explained that the intervention of the Board of Trustees, led by Adolphus Wabara, was instrumental in restarting dialogue, following guidance from the Court of Appeal in Ibadan.
“In obedience to the advice of the Court of Appeal, the Board of Trustees constituted a high-powered committee to interface with our estranged party members,” Turaki said.
As part of confidence-building measures, the NWC postponed key meetings of the National Executive Committee and National Caucus, while also toning down its public rhetoric to create room for constructive engagement. Although the party initially noted a lack of reciprocal gestures, it said recent developments indicate a positive shift.
“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 stated.
Turaki called on party supporters across the country to remain calm and avoid inflammatory remarks that could undermine the fragile peace process.
While legal disputes among stakeholders remain active in various courts, including the Court of Appeal, the PDP leadership signalled its willingness to withdraw all cases once 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 added.
The party also moved to reassure aspirants and members unsettled by the crisis, affirming its readiness to participate fully in the electoral process.
“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.
Emphasising the need for compromise, he stressed that the PDP remains committed to preserving its unity despite internal disagreements.
“We are willing to bend as far as our necks and backs allow… PDP will not die,” he declared.
Turaki further revealed that individuals allegedly working against reconciliation within the party had been identified and dealt with, reinforcing confidence in the ongoing peace efforts.
Beyond addressing its internal challenges, the PDP reiterated its role as a key opposition platform committed to democratic accountability and good governance in Nigeria.
“As Nigeria’s only surviving legacy party, we remain committed to defending and consolidating our democracy,” he said, noting that governance must ultimately reflect the will of the people.
“Ultimate power resides with the people; it must therefore remain the centrepiece of governance,” he added.
In a show of internal alignment, the Turaki-led NWC passed a vote of confidence on Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed for their roles in steadying the party during the crisis.
The party also expressed appreciation to Nigerians who continue to register through its online platform, noting that grassroots support remains resilient despite recent challenges.
