PDP BoT, NCC, move to bury internal crisis, push for unity, congresses, obey court order ahead of convention

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is ramping up efforts to bury its internal crisis, with the Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Caretaker Committee pledging unwavering commitment to unity, judicial compliance, and swift preparations for congresses leading to a national convention.

At the BoT’s 85th meeting held at the official residence of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory in Abuja, the Chairman Mao Ohuabunwa painted a picture of the party at a “critical crossroads,” urging leaders to prioritise collective interests over personal ambitions. He highlighted how PDP had endured months of leadership wrangles and court battles, crediting its resilience to robust institutions and constitutional fidelity.

Ohuabunwa defended delays in state congresses as a prudent nod to ongoing judicial processes, insisting it was no shirking of duty. “The PDP chose legality over expediency and patience over provocation,” he declared. “History will judge the party kindly for upholding the rule of law.”

He hailed a recent Federal High Court ruling in Ibadan that upheld the legitimacy of the Abdulrahman-led Caretaker Committee, calling on members to honor judicial verdicts and shun divisive talk that erodes democratic norms.

“With the legal fog lifting, the focus must now shift to reconciliation, rebuilding trust and laying the groundwork for orderly congresses and a credible national convention,” Ohuabunwa added, framing unity as the party’s survival lifeline.

Echoing the sentiment, Caretaker Committee Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed thanked the BoT for its rock-solid backing amid turbulent times and nodded to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s support, which he said boosted their mandate. Holidays are over, Mohammed stressed—it’s time for action.

“The Ibadan High Court has delivered a declaratory judgment in our favour; the law is clear, and justice will continue to be pursued,” he said. “Any moment from now, we shall roll out a timetable for activities relating to outstanding congresses in some states, which will usher in a seamless national convention.”

Mohammed touted PDP as Nigeria’s sole people-centric party with nationwide reach and proven legacies, warning against complacency: “We cannot afford to sleep in our hands.” He praised stakeholders nationwide for their loyalty during these “defining times.”

Both leaders expressed confidence that reconciliation drives and upcoming congresses would restore PDP as a formidable opposition force in Nigeria’s political arena.