Fresh moves to reconcile the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the electoral timetable for the 2027 general elections are facing headwinds, as entrenched divisions and hard-line positions among key stakeholders continue to threaten any meaningful truce.

However, a faction has appointed former governor of Enugu State, Okezie Ikpeazu, as Chairman of its 2026 National Convention Planning Committee, as preparations intensify for its crucial national gathering slated for March 29 and 30, 2026.

Meanwhile, a former PDP presidential aspirant, Gbenga Hashim, emphasised the need for stronger unity within the party as part of efforts to resolve its internal crisis.

Although recent engagements among party leaders raised cautious optimism, indications remain that reconciliation efforts may yet falter, particularly over the conditions being advanced by the faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The latest intervention follows the Appeal Court judgment that nullified the Ibadan Elective National Convention, which produced Taminu Turaki, affirmed the expulsion of certain party members, and recognised the leadership of former Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum.

The ruling further complicated the party’s internal dynamics, deepening fault lines, even as reconciliation efforts intensify.

A party chieftain in Lagos, Adetokunbo Pearse, dismissed the reconciliation push, particularly any arrangement tied to the party forgoing its presidential ticket in 2027, describing it as “unacceptable and null.”

Pearse also criticised the Hashim-Makinde meeting, accusing the former of prioritising personal ambition over party cohesion and zoning principles. According to him, the PDP had already zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, and any move perceived to undermine that arrangement would deepen mistrust within the party.

Similarly, the PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Ajisafe Toyese, acknowledged the necessity of reconciliation but cautioned against any faction attempting to impose its terms on others.

He warned that the success of any peace process would depend on mutual concessions, urging party leaders to eschew arrogance and avoid presenting their positions as superior.

Observers note that while dialogue has resumed across factions, the PDP’s path to unity remains uncertain, with competing ambitions, zoning disputes, and trust deficits continuing to undermine its chances of presenting a united front ahead of the 2027 polls.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) said Senator Mustapha Khabeeb would serve as secretary of the committee.

The committee, according to the party, comprises “distinguished leaders and stakeholders from across the country” and is tasked with planning, coordinating and ensuring the successful conduct of the convention in line with the party’s constitution and guidelines.

Other members include the NCWC Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, and the Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

Also listed are Senators Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central), Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro and Senator Abdul Ningi, among others.

PDP further named the Chairman of its Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, alongside former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, and his Benue counterpart, Samuel Ortom, as members of the committee.

The party disclosed that the inauguration of the main committee and its sub-committees would be held on March 21, 2026, at Chida Hotel at 7:00 p.m., urging all members to be seated before commencement.

It added that the convention planning structure includes many sub-committees responsible for zoning, electoral matters, screening, media, medical services, venue, security, accreditation and entertainment.

“The committee is saddled with the responsibility of planning, coordinating and ensuring the successful conduct of the National Convention,” the statement signed by the NCWC National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, added.

HASHIM, in a statement following his meeting with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Abuja, stressed that cohesion remains central to the PDP’s role as a credible opposition.

The meeting forms part of ongoing consultations and behind-the-scenes engagements among party leaders aimed at redefining alliances, strengthening internal structures and managing tensions ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Describing the engagement as productive and forward-looking, Hashim said discussions focused on fostering unity within the party and positioning it to play a more decisive role in Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

He commended Makinde for his commitment to the PDP and his contributions to sustaining and strengthening democratic practice in the country.
A
ccording to the former presidential aspirant, unity within the party is critical to its ability to provide credible opposition and national leadership, particularly at a time Nigeria’s democratic system requires stability, inclusiveness and strong institutions.

Hashim expressed confidence that sustained dialogue among stakeholders would help bridge internal divisions and reposition the PDP for improved competitiveness in future elections.