Saraki, Makarfi, Gana Lead PDP Reconciliation Ahead of Convention

Leading figures in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Bukola Saraki, Ahmed Makarfi and Jerry Gana, are engaged in consultations aimed at resolving the party’s internal divisions ahead of its March 29–30 national convention in Abuja.

The talks follow a ruling by the Court of Appeal which nullified the November 2025 convention in Ibadan that produced the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee. The decision recognised the caretaker leadership headed by Abdulrahman Muhammad, a faction backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Both camps began exploratory discussions last week as part of efforts to reach a working arrangement before the convention. A National Convention Committee has since been constituted, chaired by former Abia State governor Okezie Ikpeazu, a political ally of Wike.

Speaking at the committee’s inauguration in Abuja, Ikpeazu said reconciliation must be driven by sincerity and mutual respect, noting that the process should move beyond symbolic gestures. He described the convention as a defining moment for the party following a period marked by internal disputes and prolonged litigation.

Party sources said negotiations are ongoing, with both factions presenting conditions for resolution. The inclusion of members from rival groups in key committees is being viewed as an early sign of compromise. The PDP has also commenced a fresh digital membership registration exercise to replace the one initiated by the Turaki faction.

Officials of the caretaker committee insist that reconciliation efforts will not affect preparations for the convention, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission has already been notified and has monitored the party’s ward, local government and state congresses.

A zoning committee is expected to submit recommendations on party offices and the presidential ticket to the National Executive Committee at an emergency meeting in Abuja. However, sources within the Turaki camp said the Sallah break slowed the pace of talks, expressing optimism that discussions would resume fully.

Speaking after Eid prayers, Tanimu Turaki said the party would overcome its challenges and urged members to support reconciliation efforts while remaining committed to democratic principles.