The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commenced a coordinated push to rebuild its internal cohesion and reposition itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The new National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), on Tuesday hosted a joint strategic meeting in Abuja, bringing together the NWC, the Former Governors’ Forum, and the Forum of Former Ministers.
Chairman Turaki stated that the decision to involve the party’s elders was deliberate, stressing that the PDP’s 16 years in power were defined by their legacies in office.
“When you talk of the 16 glorious years of the PDP, you are talking of the uncommon projects and legacies delivered by our former governors and the phenomenal work done by our former ministers,” Turaki said.
He insisted the new NWC is seeking guidance on how the party earned public trust previously.
“We want to know what you did that distinguished PDP’s leadership, what earned Nigerians’ confidence, and what made PDP a household name. We are ready to take advice, guidance and even directives,” Turaki said.
Acknowledging past errors, Turaki pledged that the new leadership is determined to correct mistakes through openness and internal justice, declaring: “This is a new PDP.”
Dr. Babangida Aliyu, Chairman of the Former Governors’ Forum, stressed that the party’s route back to power must be rooted in humility and respect for the people.
Aliyu argued that public frustration under the current administration provides a clear political opportunity.
He said: “Since 2015, Nigerians have been unhappy. They are angry. It is our responsibility to ensure that by 2027 we give succour, hope and direction to this country.”
He encouraged unity and discipline, declaring that the party “will not die until we die.”
Speaking on behalf of the former ministers, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau praised Chairman Turaki for exceeding expectations in his first few weeks, specifically citing the defiance shown in reclaiming the party headquarters following the National Elective Convention held on November 15 and 16 in Ibadan.
“When we went to inaugurate the newly elected officers at our national headquarters, we defied tear gas and threats by uniformed men hired by the devils… Chairman, congratulations,” Shekarau said.
Shekarau assured the NWC of the full support of the former ministers, echoing the sentiment of Nigerians who now “openly yearn for” the PDP’s previous governance due to their experiences under other administrations.