Factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have revived reconciliation efforts ahead of the March 29–30, 2026, national convention, amid assurances from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the party remains united.
A bloc led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN), with backing from PDP governors, confirmed on Wednesday that a fresh peace process aimed at resolving internal disputes is underway. Turaki, speaking in Abuja, said the initiative—prompted by earlier advice from the Court of Appeal, Ibadan—began on Tuesday and is already yielding progress.
According to him, the party’s Board of Trustees, chaired by Senator Adolphus Wabara, constituted a high-level committee to engage aggrieved members and address lingering issues. As a sign of goodwill, the National Working Committee also postponed key meetings and toned down confrontational rhetoric.
While noting that some opposing elements have continued hostile communication, Turaki said leaders on both sides have “broken the ice” and are exploring pathways to lasting peace. He expressed optimism that reconciliation would succeed and pledged that all pending court cases would be withdrawn once agreements are reached.
“We are ready to make sacrifices in the overall interest of the party. PDP will not die,” he said, adding that discussions would also determine the fate of the planned convention.
The renewed talks come amid a protracted leadership crisis within the party. The Court of Appeal had on March 9 nullified the November 15 Ibadan convention that produced Turaki and other members of the National Working Committee, citing violations of the Electoral Act and party rules.
Meanwhile, Wike dismissed claims of a factional split, insisting there is only one PDP despite internal disagreements.
“We have only one PDP. Some individuals may not be happy, but there is no faction,” he said, adding that reconciliation efforts can continue alongside preparations for the convention.
The crisis had earlier led to the emergence of a rival caretaker committee backed by Wike’s allies, deepening divisions and triggering legal battles.
Despite the tensions, both camps now appear to be moving toward dialogue in a bid to stabilise the party ahead of upcoming elections.
Separately, Wike reaffirmed the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s commitment to infrastructure development after inspecting ongoing and completed projects in Abuja. He said several projects, including a bridge near the Fire Service and the N5 road handled by Julius Berger, are progressing well, with some set for inauguration as part of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary.
He also expressed satisfaction with completed staff housing at the Nigerian Law School and ongoing hostel projects, while urging contractors to meet delivery timelines.
Wike attributed the pace of development to prudent resource management and strong political will, emphasising that contracts are only awarded based on available funding.