As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares to gather in the historic city of Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025, expectations are high, and so are the stakes. For Nigeria’s oldest surviving political party, the Ibadan convention is not just another internal exercise in leadership renewal—it is a defining moment that could either restore the PDP’s lost confidence or deepen its internal fractures.

But signs point towards hope. For the first time since the turbulence that followed the 2023 general elections, the PDP appears poised for genuine reconciliation and institutional rebirth. The recognition of Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the party’s substantive national chairman has brought temporary calm and legal clarity to a party once beset by leadership uncertainty. Yet, the real test of its survival and unity will play out in Ibadan, where delegates will elect a new National Working Committee (NWC) expected to reposition the PDP ahead of the 2027 general election.

And at the heart of that hopeful expectation stands one man—Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, a name that evokes respect within Nigeria’s political, legal, and intellectual circles.

The Ibadan convention represents more than a procedural obligation; it is a chance for self-redemption. The PDP, which once prided itself as “Africa’s largest political party”, has seen its fortunes fluctuate since 2015, when it lost power at the centre. In the past decade, internal squabbles, factionalism, and personality clashes have weakened its coherence and public appeal.

But every great institution has its turning point — a moment to reset and reassert its values. The Ibadan convention offers exactly that. It is not just about electing new leaders; it is about rediscovering the PDP’s soul. The choice of Ibadan, a city renowned for its political sophistication and historical symbolism, adds to the significance. It was in this city that the Western Region’s early democratic ideals were nurtured. It is, therefore, symbolic that the PDP’s renewal journey begins here — the cradle of Nigerian political history.

The forthcoming NWC is expected to mirror the party’s renewed commitment to discipline, inclusivity, and democratic ethos. The emergence of credible, unifying figures—particularly Kabiru Tanimu Turaki as the projected new national chairman—reinforces the optimism that the PDP is ready to turn the page on years of internal distrust.

To many Nigerians, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, is not just a politician; he is a symbol of intellect, integrity, and steady leadership. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, Turaki’s record is one of competence, moderation, and nation-building.

Born in the ancient town of Nasarawa in Kebbi State, Turaki rose from humble beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s most respected legal minds. He earned his law degree from the University of Jos and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986. His early years were marked by a keen interest in advocacy and human rights, earning him the admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

As a legal practitioner, Turaki founded Kabiru Tanimu Turaki & Co., a law firm reputed for professionalism and mentorship. His elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) underscored not just his mastery of law but his integrity in its practice. Over the decades, he has mentored many young lawyers and promoted legal ethics in a system often clouded by compromise.

In public service, Turaki brought the same discipline and intellect. As minister under President Goodluck Jonathan, he was among the most effective members of the Federal Executive Council, noted for his coordination skills and ability to foster dialogue among Nigeria’s diverse political actors. His chairmanship of the presidential committee that sought peaceful engagement with northern insurgents remains a model in conflict resolution, blending firmness with empathy.

Politically, Turaki’s appeal cuts across regions. He is known for his calm temperament, inclusive mindset, and bridge-building capacity — qualities the PDP urgently needs as it rebuilds its internal unity and public trust.

The projected emergence of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki as PDP national chairman signals a deliberate shift towards competence and character. His blend of legal precision and political diplomacy could not have come at a better time. The PDP is entering a delicate phase — one that requires an experienced hand to harmonise the party’s structure, restore confidence among members, and re-energise its grassroots base.

Turaki’s leadership style is consultative yet firm. Those who have worked with him describe him as a man who listens more than he speaks, yet when he does, his words command respect. That sense of maturity and restraint will be vital in uniting a party that has, for too long, been divided by ego and regional rivalry.

Beyond managing internal affairs, Turaki’s leadership is expected to project a more credible and issue-based opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His approach to opposition politics is not one of bitterness or confrontation but of constructive engagement — challenging the government on policy, governance, and the economy while offering viable alternatives.

The 2027 general election will be a test not just of popularity but of organisation and credibility. Under Turaki, the PDP is expected to professionalise its operations, strengthen internal democracy, and rebuild its digital and grassroots mobilisation structures. His legal background will also help ensure the party adheres strictly to its constitution and the Electoral Act — preventing the type of legal missteps that have previously cost it victories.

One of the major crises that has haunted the PDP since 2015 has been trust — or the lack of it. Distrust between governors and the national leadership, between old members and defectors, and between regional blocs has often crippled collective action.

The new NWC that will emerge from Ibadan, under Turaki’s guidance, is expected to rebuild that broken trust. Already, many governors, former leaders, and key stakeholders are rallying behind the idea of a clean slate — a new beginning untainted by the rancour of the past. The Damagum-led caretaker team has succeeded in stabilising the party’s machinery long enough to pave the way for this renewal.

The incoming executives are expected to embody competence, youth inclusion, and regional balance — ensuring that the PDP regains its reputation as a truly national party. The return of discipline and a merit-based system could once again make the PDP attractive to Nigerians who long for serious opposition politics rooted in policy and performance, not propaganda.

However, unity cannot thrive in an environment of sabotage. The greatest danger to the PDP today is not external opposition but internal subversion—members who, while publicly professing loyalty, secretly collude with the ruling APC to undermine the party’s progress. These acts of betrayal have in the past cost the PDP dearly in elections and credibility.

Party faithfuls have not forgotten how internal conspiracies led to the loss of winnable states, divided structures, and conflicting messages before the 2023 elections. Some self-serving politicians, motivated by contracts, appointments, or business favours, have willingly weakened their own party from within.

The Ibadan convention must, therefore, mark a clear break from the era of dual loyalty. The incoming NWC should not hesitate to wield the big stick where necessary. Those who connive with external forces to sabotage the party’s collective interests should be sanctioned according to the party’s constitution. No institution can progress when betrayal is tolerated as political strategy.

True loyalty must now be measured not by rhetoric but by action — by contribution to the party’s growth, commitment to its ideals, and faithfulness in times of adversity. The PDP can only survive if it rids itself of those who see politics merely as a platform for personal enrichment.

As Nigeria inches towards the 2027 general elections, the PDP stands at a strategic crossroads. The Ibadan convention offers a chance to reorganise its house, redefine its message, and restore its national relevance.

The party’s recovery will depend on three key pillars: unity, credibility, and competence — all of which Kabiru Tanimu Turaki embodies. With his depth of experience, he is well positioned to guide the PDP into a new era of mature, idea-driven politics. His leadership can help the party focus on real national issues — the economy, security, unemployment, and national integration — instead of the petty rivalries that have long distracted it.

Already, Nigerians are yearning for an alternative that can challenge the status quo. The ruling APC, despite being in power, faces mounting criticism over the cost of living, insecurity, and dwindling public trust. The electorate is restless, searching for a credible opposition with clear vision and competence.

If the PDP consolidates its unity in Ibadan, harmonises its structures across states, and rebuilds its grassroots connections, it will automatically become that alternative. The convention, therefore, is not merely an internal affair — it is a signal to Nigerians that the PDP is ready to lead again.

The choice of Ibadan for this convention is symbolic in every sense. Historically, Ibadan was the epicentre of intellectual and political awakening in Nigeria. It hosted some of the country’s earliest democratic experiments and produced leaders who defined Nigeria’s political direction in the pre- and post-independence eras.

Holding the convention there rekindles that historical spirit — a reminder that Nigerian politics must return to the ideals of service, vision, and sacrifice. Delegates converging on the ancient city must, therefore, approach their task with patriotic conviction, seeing it not merely as a party affair but as a national duty.

The PDP must use Ibadan to send a strong message: that it is back, united, and ready to reclaim its position as the conscience of Nigeria’s democracy.

The renewal the PDP seeks must go beyond leadership change. It must be reflected in its ideology, communication, and engagement with the people. The party needs to rebuild its image as the voice of ordinary Nigerians—the farmers, teachers, traders, youths, and women who bear the brunt of economic hardship.

A rejuvenated PDP should embrace digital transformation in politics — data-driven campaigns, social media transparency, and youth-led innovation. It must also promote internal mentorship to nurture the next generation of party leaders who will carry its torch beyond 2027.

The projected NWC, under Turaki, is already generating optimism. Insiders reveal that the proposed team will include a fair blend of technocrats, young professionals, and tested politicians—a balance that could finally merge experience with modern political strategy. This is exactly what the PDP needs to restore public confidence.

No matter how brilliant its leaders are, the PDP’s survival ultimately depends on the collective commitment of its members. Every ward leader, state chairman, lawmaker, and governor must see themselves as custodians of a national heritage. The party’s founding fathers—from the days of Alex Ekwueme, Solomon Lar, and Adamu Ciroma built the PDP on the foundation of inclusivity and service.

Now is the time to return to those values. The Ibadan convention must reawaken that sense of purpose and sacrifice. It should remind every member that political victory is not won by division but by unity of vision.

As the curtain rises on the Ibadan 2025 convention, optimism fills the air. The PDP, though battered by years of internal discord, is far from defeated. The party has survived storms that would have sunk lesser institutions and now stands on the verge of a new dawn.

The emergence of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki as national chairman — a calm, intelligent, and principled leader — offers the right leadership tonic at the right time. His legal acumen, administrative experience, and bridge-building credentials can rekindle hope, rebuild unity, and restore the PDP’s moral authority in Nigerian politics.

The saboteurs and opportunists may continue their games, but the strength of genuine party loyalists and the will of the people will prevail. Ibadan must mark the beginning of a new chapter — one defined by loyalty, progress, and vision.

If the PDP gets it right here, it will not only reclaim its lost confidence but will stand once again as the beautiful bride of Nigerian democracy — poised to challenge for power and offer the nation a credible path to renewal in 2027.

Agu is an Abuja-based political affairs analyst.