PDP National Chairman faces high expectations as leaders push for unity, reconciliation, and discipline before the party’s November convention
PDP National Chairman hopefuls are under intense scrutiny as the Peoples Democratic Party prepares for its national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, this November. Senior figures within the National Executive Committee have made clear their expectations for the incoming leadership, calling for unity, discipline, and a fresh commitment to party values before the 2027 general election.
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In exclusive conversations with The PUNCH, key members of the NEC — including former national secretary Ibrahim Tsauri and Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor — voiced optimism that the new National Working Committee will revitalise the PDP and restore its standing as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.
At its 102nd NEC meeting in August, the PDP resolved to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South while reserving the national chairmanship for the North. That position has now been further micro-zoned to the North-West, prompting an internal contest among key northern figures.
Over the weekend, northern PDP governors led by Adamawa’s Ahmadu Fintiri endorsed former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as their consensus choice. However, the move sparked unease among other northern leaders, including supporters of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, who claimed they were excluded from the process.
Adding to the intrigue, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is said to be quietly backing his ally and former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, for the chairmanship.
Tsauri urged the party to embrace a spirit of “collective and credible leadership” anchored in integrity, fairness, and discipline.
“The new PDP National Chairman must promote party supremacy, uphold the constitution, and guarantee a level playing field for all members,” he said, expressing confidence that such leadership would restore the party’s credibility and encourage defectors to return.
Osadolor echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of empathy and engagement. “The next chairman must listen, learn, and bridge divides,” he said.
“This is not about personal ambition but about rebuilding the PDP as a unifying force in Nigerian politics.”
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As the convention approaches, the PDP stands at a defining moment. Many within the party see the forthcoming leadership transition as a test of its ability to reconcile internal rifts and reposition itself for a credible challenge in 2027.
