By Our Correspondent
The two major factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have signaled readiness to reconcile after months of internal leadership disputes, following an advisory by the Court of Appeal in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Both groups, aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, expressed willingness to engage in dialogue aimed at resolving the party’s ongoing crisis.
The Court of Appeal, led by Justice Biobele Georgewill, encouraged both sides to settle their differences amicably during proceedings on a pending appeal.
The case, adjourned until March 11, concerns conflicting rulings from the Federal High Court, Ibadan, and the Oyo State High Court over the legality of the party’s Ibadan convention.
The convention, held on November 15–16, 2025, produced Tanimu Turaki as National Chairman.
The Wike-backed faction, led by National Caretaker Chairman Mohammed Abdulrahman, had initially won a Federal High Court judgment nullifying the convention.
Meanwhile, the Turaki-led faction received court affirmation in February 2026 that the convention complied with the PDP Constitution and Electoral Act.
Both factions are now seeking recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Acting National Secretary of the caretaker committee, Samuel Anyanwu, stated his faction remains open to dialogue, though he accused the Makinde-aligned group of prolonging the crisis for personal ambitions.
He emphasized that the caretaker committee is the only structure recognized by INEC to represent the PDP.
On the other hand, Ini Ememobong, National Publicity Secretary of the Turaki faction, also supported reconciliation, noting that any agreement must strengthen the party and position it for future elections.
He clarified that the Court of Appeal’s guidance was advisory, not a final ruling, giving the factions a chance to negotiate internally.
Both sides now face a critical opportunity to heal divisions within Nigeria’s leading opposition party.
Analysts suggest successful reconciliation could stabilize the PDP ahead of upcoming electoral contests and consolidate its influence in national politics.
