PDP Governors Accuse APC of Meddling, Set Up Reconciliation Committee to Address Internal Crisis

In a bid to restore internal stability and reposition for the 2027 general elections, governors and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have raised concerns over possible interference by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the party’s ongoing internal crisis. The revelations came during a crucial meeting held on Sunday night at the Abuja lodge of Bauchi State Governor and PDP Governors Forum Chairman, Bala Mohammed.

The high-level meeting brought together current and former PDP governors, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), and other senior party stakeholders. It aimed to deliberate on pressing issues affecting the party, particularly internal divisions, defections, and preparations for the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27, as well as the party’s national convention set for August 2025.

Falana Alleges Diversion Of $3.4bn IMF COVID-19 Loan, Calls For Urgent Probe

PDP Raises Alarm Over Possible APC Meddling

Addressing journalists after the closed-door meeting, Governor Bala Mohammed hinted at potential external influence in the PDP’s internal discord. “We wouldn’t want to blame the APC for causing crisis, but they are likely to be the ones. We are not saying they are the ones,” he said, suggesting subtle interference by the ruling party could be exacerbating tensions within the PDP.

Mohammed stressed that while APC’s involvement couldn’t be confirmed outright, the PDP would remain vigilant and focus on internal healing to prevent further destabilisation.

Reconciliation Committee Led by Bukola Saraki

A key resolution from the meeting was the formation of a seven-member reconciliation committee tasked with addressing grievances, resolving disputes, and preparing the party for a unified NEC and convention. Former Senate President and ex-Kwara State Governor, Bukola Saraki, was named chairman of the committee.

In a post on social media, Saraki described the meeting as “fruitful,” confirming that discussions were focused on steering the party through its present challenges and defining a clearer path forward.

Other members of the committee include:

• Governor Dauda Lawal (Zamfara)
• Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau)
• Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu)
• Senator Seriake Dickson (former Bayelsa governor)
• Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo (former Gombe governor)
• Chief Okezie Ikpeazu (former Abia governor)

Saraki noted, “We hope to do our best in delivering on the assignment given to us,” signalling the committee’s intent to bridge the party’s growing divides.

Unity Amid Defections and Discontent

The PDP has faced a wave of defections in recent months, with some of its notable members jumping ship to rival parties. However, Governor Mohammed downplayed the impact, framing it as part of the democratic process that could eventually lead to renewed strength and unity within the party.

“Rather than diminishing and weakening, it is making us stronger,” he asserted. “This is what is forcing us to come together.”

The governor expressed confidence that with appropriate reconciliation efforts and structural reforms, the PDP would reclaim states it once controlled and emerge stronger in future elections. “We will make sure those chapters where we have history, where we have structure, are not left alone. They will be able to produce the next governors of the PDP by the grace of God,” he added.

PDP Leadership Reaffirms Commitment to Rebuilding

The meeting, which was well-attended by both serving and former party leaders, signalled the PDP’s commitment to tackling its internal challenges head-on. Present were governors including:

• Ademola Adeleke (Osun)
• Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau)
• Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa)
• Seyi Makinde (Oyo)
• Peter Mbah (Enugu)

Also in attendance were several ex-governors:
Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Achike Udenwa (Imo), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), and Ahmed Makarfi (former caretaker chairman of PDP). Notably, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike was present but declined to speak to the press, adding intrigue to his current role in the evolving PDP saga.

The PDP Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, also participated in the meeting, reinforcing the leadership’s determination to pave the way for a smooth NEC meeting and national convention.

NEC and National Convention

As the party gears up for its NEC meeting on May 27, the focus remains on presenting a united front, healing internal rifts, and consolidating ahead of the 2027 elections. With the reconciliation committee under Saraki’s leadership and support from both past and current stakeholders, the PDP appears intent on transforming crisis into opportunity.

Governor Mohammed summed up the party’s renewed commitment: “We are not here for ourselves. We are here to protect the soul of the PDP and ensure it remains a strong opposition that can rescue Nigeria.”