Kabiru Turaki Emerges PDP National Chairman In Ibadan

Kabiru Turaki Emerges PDP National Chairman in Ibadan

Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Minister of Special Duties, has been elected as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following a tense and highly controversial national convention held in Ibadan.

The convention, which drew delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, was marked by sharp disagreements over zoning arrangements, accreditation delays, and allegations of last-minute maneuvers by rival blocs. Security was heightened around the venue as factional groups exchanged accusations, leading to brief disruptions before voting commenced.

Despite the tension, Turaki secured a clear majority of votes, and his victory was announced in the early hours of Sunday after hours of collation monitored by party agents and observers. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to delegates for their confidence and pledged to heal divisions within the party. He emphasized the need to rebuild trust and restore unity, framing his mandate as a collective renewal of the PDP. Turaki promised to reposition the party as a more formidable opposition ahead of the next general elections.

The convention was not without controversy. Several aspirants rejected the outcome, alleging irregularities and vowing to seek redress through internal mechanisms.

The event also polarized the party further, with some founding members having secured court injunctions to prevent the convention from proceeding, citing injustices in the zoning of the National Chairman position. In addition, the convention announced the suspension of several influential members, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose, and former National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, among others.

Party leaders, including governors and former members of the National Working Committee, urged aggrieved aspirants to accept the outcome and work with the new leadership. They stressed that unity was essential for the PDP to regain its footing as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.

Turaki is expected to immediately begin consultations aimed at reconciling factions and setting a new strategic direction for the party.

The Ibadan convention marks a critical turning point for the PDP, which has struggled with prolonged internal rifts and factional disputes.

The days ahead will determine whether Turaki’s leadership can truly mend divisions and strengthen the party’s position in Nigeria’s political landscape.