Prosper Okoye
Nigeria’s opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it has stepped back from a deep internal crisis, with rival camps loyal to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike opening talks to stabilise the party before the 2027 elections.
Tensions had escalated for months, spilling into court cases, public disputes and internal power struggles, raising concerns about the party’s unity and preparedness for the next electoral cycle.
But under increasing pressure, both sides are now shifting toward dialogue.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelSpeaking in Abuja on Wednesday, factional PDP National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki said the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), aligned with the Makinde camp, had begun efforts to ease tensions following intervention by the Board of Trustees led by Senator Adolphus Wabara.
“In obedience to the advisory of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan, the Board of Trustees constituted a high-powered committee to interface with our estranged party members,” Turaki said.
As an initial step, the NWC postponed meetings of the National Executive Committee and National Caucus and moderated its public statements. However, Turaki said the response from the opposing camp was initially marked by “hurtful rhetoric” and “derogatory statements.”
Despite this, he said progress has been made.
“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 said.
He urged supporters nationwide to avoid actions or comments that could undermine the fragile talks.
Legal disputes remain active in several courts, including the Court of Appeal, underscoring the depth of the divisions. Still, the party signalled it is prepared to withdraw all cases if a political agreement is reached.
“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,” Turaki said.
He also sought to reassure party aspirants, saying the PDP would field candidates for all elective offices.
Turaki acknowledged that compromise would be necessary to preserve party unity.
“We are willing to bend as far as our necks and backs allow… PDP will not die,” he said.
He added that some internal resistance to reconciliation had been identified and addressed.
Beyond the crisis, the PDP reiterated its role as a leading opposition force, pledging to hold the government accountable and defend democratic principles.
“Ultimate power resides with the people; it must therefore remain the centrepiece of governance,” he said.
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The Turaki-led NWC also passed a vote of confidence on Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, commending their roles during the crisis.
With talks now underway, attention turns to whether the negotiations will produce a lasting truce or whether divisions could resurface as the 2027 elections approach.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
