In a decisive move to address deepening internal divisions, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed former Senate President Bukola Saraki to lead a seven-member reconciliation committee. The announcement followed a crucial meeting of current and former PDP governors held in Abuja.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, disclosed that the committee’s primary task is to engage with aggrieved members, foster unity, and build consensus ahead of two pivotal events: the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27, and the National Elective Convention in August.
Since the 2023 general elections, the PDP has been grappling with a wave of defections and internal strife. The situation worsened following a political standoff between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Tensions in the South-South zone, coupled with the unresolved vacancy for the position of National Secretary—vacant since December 2024—have further strained party cohesion.
Despite interventions from the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), Board of Trustees (BoT), NEC, and the Governors’ Forum, efforts to mend fences have largely fallen flat, leading to further disintegration at both state and zonal levels.
The crisis reached a tipping point on April 23 when Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and other top officials, officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—a major blow to the PDP’s public image and electoral outlook ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Mohammed emphasized that the meeting of party leaders was convened to take stock of these challenges and chart a fresh course to reposition the PDP for future success.
