Kabiru Turaki Emerges PDP National Chairman at Oyo Convention, Pledges Reconciliation and Rebirth

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has entered a new chapter in its political journey as former Minister of Special Duties Kabiru Tanimu Turaki emerged on Saturday as the new National Chairman of the opposition party. Turaki was affirmed by delegates during the party’s highly anticipated national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, marking a significant step in the party’s ongoing efforts to restructure and reposition itself for future electoral contests.

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The convention, which drew thousands of party members, governors, former governors, federal lawmakers, and stakeholders from the 36 states and the FCT, was characterized by high expectations and calls for unity following months of internal crises, factional disputes, and disciplinary actions—including the recent expulsion of some high-profile members for alleged anti-party activities. Against this backdrop, the emergence of Kabiru Turaki was widely interpreted as a consensus move to stabilize the party and chart a more cohesive path forward.

Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and one-time presidential aspirant within the party, was endorsed after extensive consultations among key blocs within the PDP. His selection followed what insiders described as an “intensive back-channel reconciliation process” driven by governors, influential party elders, and the Board of Trustees. Although some party members had initially expressed interest in the position, most stepped down in favour of a unified front, resulting in Turaki’s affirmation without a highly competitive vote.

In his acceptance speech, Turaki expressed gratitude to the delegates and party faithful for entrusting him with what he called “a sacred responsibility” at a defining moment in the party’s history. He emphasized that the PDP must rediscover its identity, strengthen its internal cohesion, and offer Nigerians a credible alternative to the ruling party. “Today is not about victory for an individual,” he said, standing before a packed hall of cheering delegates. “It is about victory for the PDP, for democracy, and for the millions of Nigerians who believe our party can restore hope and rebuild this nation.”

Turaki pledged to immediately commence a nationwide reconciliation tour aimed at mending fractured relationships and bringing back aggrieved members who left the party over disputes ranging from primary election fallouts to factional disagreements at the state level. According to him, the PDP “cannot afford to go into any major election divided,” especially at a time when Nigerians are demanding stronger opposition voices on issues such as economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and governance failures.

He also promised to strengthen the party’s internal democratic processes, ensuring that primaries at all levels are conducted transparently, free of imposition, and respectful of the wishes of grassroots members. “If we want Nigerians to trust us again,” Turaki said, “we must show them that we have learned from the past and are committed to doing things differently.”

Several prominent party figures, including state governors and members of the National Working Committee (NWC), praised Turaki’s emergence, describing him as a bridge-builder with the political maturity needed to stabilize the PDP. A governor from the South-South region noted that the new chairman possesses “deep knowledge of the party’s structure and the temperament needed to manage diverse interests,” while a North-Central senator said Turaki’s leadership “arrives at the right time, especially when the party must rebuild ahead of the next general election.”

The Oyo convention was not only about leadership renewal but also an opportunity for members to deliberate on the party’s future direction. Delegates discussed strategies to strengthen grassroots mobilization, revamp the party’s digital architecture, and improve transparency in financial management. There were also calls for stronger youth and women participation, with several speakers noting that the PDP must modernize its outreach to remain competitive in an evolving political climate.

Observers believe Turaki’s biggest task will be guiding the PDP through turbulent internal waters, especially following the expulsion of several senior figures including Nyesom Wike, Ayo Fayose, and other influential members accused of working against the party in previous elections. While some delegates supported the disciplinary measures as necessary for restoring order, others warned that the party must balance enforcement with forgiveness to avoid deepening existing fractures.

As the convention concluded, Turaki reiterated that his leadership would be “inclusive, transparent, and forward-looking.” He called on all party members—old, new, loyal, and estranged—to join hands in rebuilding. “The PDP belongs to all of us,” he said. “Let us rise together and show Nigerians that we are ready to lead again.”

With his affirmation now complete, the PDP begins yet another chapter under a new national chairman, carrying both the hopes of its supporters and the burden of meeting the expectations of millions of Nigerians looking for a reinvigorated opposition.