The two warring factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have assured Nigerians that the party remains on course and will not disappoint the electorate. This statement follows a meeting between the factions and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja. National Chairman Tanimu Turaki and the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, both emphasized the importance of unity and transparency within the party after their discussions with INEC.
During a press briefing, Turaki stated, “We want to assure Nigerians and indeed our party members that we are on course. We shall continue to remain on course by the special grace of God.” He acknowledged the INEC’s invitation as an opportunity to resolve the ongoing leadership crisis within the party. Turaki noted that his National Working Committee (NWC) had attended the meeting, where discussions took place with representatives from both factions.
He pointed out that INEC acknowledged ongoing legal cases affecting the party but indicated that it could not intervene as a court of jurisdiction. Turaki expressed appreciation for INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan’s decision to give both factions a fair hearing, despite the commission being aware of the authentic leadership.
The aim of the meeting was to prevent jeopardizing the PDP’s interests in upcoming elections in the Federal Capital Territory, Ekiti, and Osun states. Turaki emphasized that holding elections without the participation of a major opposition party like the PDP would “cast a dark shadow” over INEC’s credibility.
In a separate interview, Anyanwu, representing the faction backed by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, echoed Turaki’s sentiments, declaring, “The PDP is still PDP. We will not disappoint Nigerians.” He acknowledged the party’s mechanisms for managing internal crises and insisted that the party would emerge stronger. While Anyanwu maintained that the court had disqualified the convention that established Turaki’s executive leadership, he commended INEC for its efforts to facilitate a peaceful resolution.
Both leaders pointed to underlying issues such as greed and ambition as contributing factors to the party’s internal strife. Anyanwu advised party members engaged in disputes to return to the National Caretaker Committee for reconciliation, stressing the need for unity and adherence to party guidelines.
The meeting concluded with calls for INEC to engage with other political parties facing similar crises, promoting collaboration to ensure effective governance leading up to the elections. The PDP leaders’ commitment to transparency and accountability reflects their intent to uphold the party’s integrity and serve the interests of Nigerians amidst ongoing challenges.
