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Tag: PDP

  • PDP’s gaffe-prone factional chairman

    PDP’s gaffe-prone factional chairman

    After a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) unanimously affirmed him as national chairman, it took only a few days for Kabiru Turaki to kick-start his career as a gaffe machine of the most exquisite variety. Speaking in Abuja two Tuesdays ago when he led his ‘troops’ to forcibly repossess the party’s national headquarters, and had been tear-gassed in the process together with his ‘brigade commanders’, he shouted himself hoarse in the cause of, as he put it facetiously, democracy. Now, he has again put his foot in his mouth over what he believed was the Federal High Court, Abuja’s predisposition to truncate justice. At the rate he is going, especially given his fecundity, he will likely sustain a weekly production of gaffes until early next year when his faction will conduct their own PDP primaries.

    Former vice president Atiku Abubakar used to be the leading melodramatic politician in the elite category. Now, he clearly cannot hold a candle to Alhaji Turaki, a combative senior lawyer who is neither diplomatic nor conciliatory. How both would have fared had Alhaji Atiku not defected to the fringe African Democratic Congress (ADC) is unclear; but a fierce competition to determine who could run his mouth the wildest would probably have ensued. Well, that’s a moot point now. The former vice president has taken his talent for wild and fanciful summations to the ADC, and Alhaji Turaki has the coast cleared for him to calumniate as much as his lexical resources can carry him.

    On November 18, after inhaling a little teargas during the battle for the party headquarters, his wits addled, Alhaji Turaki cried out to probably the most undemocratic president in United States history to help save or restore Nigerian democracy. He was remorseless: “I want to call on President Trump to come and help save democracy in Nigeria. It is not only genocide against Christians that is happening. He should come and save democracy in Nigeria because democracy is under threat. I am calling on other developed nations to come and save democracy in Nigeria…I have said that we are willing to lay down our lives to protect our office, to protect our democracy and to protect our mandate. Nigerians, you are seeing what is happening. The international community, you are seeing the threat that Nigerian democracy is facing. Come and save us.” He ignored his Freudian slip of confirming Christian genocide in Nigeria and goes on to cry mournfully for help. That help will of course never come. The American president does not just resent democracy, he loathes it, and is fascinated by right-wing, authoritarian and even fascist leaders.

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    Alhaji Turaki’s gaffes sound eerily like morbid humour to most Nigerians. But to the PDP leader, it probably sounds like music. Roundly condemned and mocked for calling for help from the US, he nevertheless caused a letter to be written to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Abuja, to complain of juridic bias against his party. According to him, a sinister coincidence pervades the administration of justice in the court, and a conspiracy in assigning PDP suits to generally a trio of judges hell bent on disinheriting the opposition party. Hear him: “My lord, it is of great concern to our Party that it would appear that all matters for the past few years filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division either for or against our Party have always been assigned to the following three Judges only, namely: Hon. Justice James Omotosho; Hon. Justice Peter Odo Lifu; Hon. Justice Abdulmalik. Even though there are other Judges numbering up to nine in the Abuja Judicial Division, who could have taken up any of these matters, as the Abuja Division has 12 Judges. Several of our Party members have recently complained bitterly to the newly elected members of the National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee of the above-mentioned scenario. Indeed, all these three Courts are viewed by party members and indeed the public as ‘courts of particular concern’ with regard to matters pertaining to or affecting the interest of the Peoples Democratic Party…”

    The court will respond to the allegations, but it is not clear whether a copy of that response will be circulated to the media, assuming the PDP does not leak it. But it is interesting that Alhaji Turaki punned the three suspected courts as ‘courts of particular concern’, an indication that the new factional chairman is simply fooling around with activism, perhaps his secret fantasy. It is also significant that while he talked about the coincidence of case assignment, he was less enthusiastic about talking about the jurisprudential exactitude of the suits his party repeatedly lost. For a factional party chairman who was accused of ignoring court judgements and engaging in forum shopping, it is indeed passing strange that he claims to be fighting for democracy and the rule of law, unfazed by his boyish invitation that opens the nation’s doors for disreputable outsiders to meddle in Nigerian affairs. When, sir, is your next gaffe due?

  • Ex-Oyo Commissioner Afonja dump PDP

    Ex-Oyo Commissioner Afonja dump PDP

    Former Commissioner for Works and Transport under Governor Seyi Makinde, Prof. Abdul‑Rahman Raphael Afonja has dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    Afonja said his decision to leave the party followed extensive consultations with stakeholders and political associates across the State.

    A statement by Afonja explained the decision stems from a lack of recognition for loyal members and the party’s failure to address internal injustices. 

    He said: “I hope this act will prompt meaningful reflection and reforms before others feel compelled to follow my example.”

    He noted he set aside a senior academic appointment to serve with integrity and drive progress. 

    According to him, during his tenure as Commissioner, he instilled discipline, encouraged professional development, prioritised staff welfare and championed teamwork as well as innovation, focusing on projects that would benefit Oyo State.

    He said: “Even after my removal from office, i continued to support PDP, personally funding campaigns, mobilizing security agencies for free elections, and safeguarding ballot materials.”

    He cited the 2023 general elections and the 2024 local government polls as examples, particularly his role in protecting the electoral process in Ogbomoso at personal risk and expense.

    “I only not contributed to the 2023 and 2024 elections in Ogbomosho but also campaigned for Governor Makinde in the Hausa‑speaking communities of Sabo—both in Ibadan and Ogbomosho—thanks to his fluency in Hausa.”

    According to him, despite the efforts, he received no meaningful recognition—no political appointments, civil‑service placements or routine party slots—while others who engaged in anti‑party activities or accepted money from the opposition were rewarded.

    He added that attempts at reconciliation and open dialogue were ignored.

    The former commissioner however noted that he will decide his next course of action.

  • ‘Ibadan PDP convention mere jamboree’

    ‘Ibadan PDP convention mere jamboree’

    • State party leaders back Wike, Mohammed, Anyanwu

    The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the November 16 convention held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, was a “lawless Committee of Friends” gathering.

    The state chapter described the outing as futile and illegal.

    In a communique issued yesterday in Owerri, the state capital, after a well-attended stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, the party hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for boycotting the “invalid” event.

    The Imo State chapter said its action underscored the party’s commitment to upholding the Rule of Law and democratic principles.

    “We dissociate ourselves from the ill-fated and unlawful Ibadan convention, hailing INEC for its astute decision to boycott the invalid gathering. This commendable stance vindicates our commitment to upholding the Rule of Law and democratic principles,” the communique said.

    The stakeholders expressed support for Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike as the party’s National Leader; Abdulrahman Mohammed as the acting National Chairman; Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary, and Austine Nwachukwu as the Imo State Chairman of the PDP.

    “We unequivocally state that the entire Imo State PDP stakeholders are solidly behind our State Chairman, Austine Nwachukwu,” the statement said, adding that Wike’s contributions to the party since 2015 “cannot be wished away”.

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    Acknowledging Wike’s leadership, the communique said: “From all available records, the FCT Minister has paid his dues and supported the party to the point he deserves the position of the National Leader of our great party.”

    The Imo State chapter also expressed support for Senator Mao Ohuabunwa as the Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman and Senator Anyanwu.

    It said: “Imo PDP and its stakeholders are in total support of their son and National Secretary.”

    The communique restated the need for “discipline and constitutional order” in the party, promising to pursue “only actions that promote due process, internal democracy and respect for the rule of law”.

    The stakeholders expressed appreciation for Wike’s performance as FCT Minister and contributions to the party’s stability.

  • Imo PDP dismisses Ibadan convention as ‘jamboree’, throws weight behind Wike

    Imo PDP dismisses Ibadan convention as ‘jamboree’, throws weight behind Wike

    The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the November 16, 2025 convention held in Ibadan as an illegal and futile “Committee of Friends” gathering.

    In a communiqué issued on Monday after a well-attended stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, the party praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for staying away from what it described as an invalid assembly, noting that the commission’s action aligns with the PDP’s commitment to the Rule of Law.

    “We dissociate ourselves from the ill-fated and unlawful Ibadan convention, and we commend INEC for its decision to boycott the invalid gathering. This stance vindicates our dedication to upholding democratic principles,” the communiqué stated.

    The stakeholders reaffirmed their support for FCT Minister Nyesom Wike as the party’s national leader, Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman; Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary; and Rt. Hon. Austine Nwachukwu as Imo State Chairman.

    “We unequivocally state that the entire Imo State PDP stakeholders are solidly behind our State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Austine Nwachukwu,” the statement added, insisting that Wike’s contributions to the party since 2015 “cannot be wished away.”

    On Wike’s leadership role, the communiqué stressed that “from all available records, the FCT Minister has paid his dues and supported the party to the point where he deserves to be recognised as the National Leader of our great party.”

    The party also declared support for Senator Mao Ohuabunwa as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and reaffirmed its backing for Senator Samuel Anyanwu, stating that “Imo PDP and her stakeholders are in total support of their son and National Secretary.”

    The communiqué reiterated the call for discipline and constitutional order within the party, urging members to pursue actions that promote due process, internal democracy, and respect for the Rule of Law.

    The stakeholders concluded by commending Wike’s performance as FCT Minister and his contributions to the party’s stability.

  • Ex-Jigawa PDP chairmen urge Lamido to seek new political platform amid party crisis

    Ex-Jigawa PDP chairmen urge Lamido to seek new political platform amid party crisis

    The forum of former local government chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jigawa State has criticised the party’s national leadership for allegedly sidelining former Governor Sule Lamido and blocking him from contesting for the position of national chairman.

    The forum stated its position in a communiqué issued after its meeting at the PDP state secretariat. 

    The statement, signed by its chairman, Hon. Ali Idris Diginsa, expressed concern over what it described as the party’s deepening internal crisis and the leadership’s failure to resolve long-standing disputes.

    According to the communiqué, the recent confrontation between Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja was “shameful and embarrassing,” further exposing the party’s weakened state.

    “The PDP is no longer a formidable national platform due to persistent divisions, distrust and unending rancour among its members,” the forum stated.

    The former chairmen reaffirmed their loyalty to Lamido, describing him as a consistent party loyalist and a steadfast political figure whose pedigree spans decades—from his activism in the PRP youth wing, to his election to the House of Representatives in 1997, to his leadership roles in the SDP, where he served as national secretary during the 1992 Abiola presidential victory.

    They noted that Lamido remains the only surviving member of the historic G9 and G18 groups who has never abandoned the PDP, even at the height of the Buhari political wave in the North.

    The forum said it has mandated Lamido to “seek a viable political platform” that would allow his followers to pursue “the dream of a greater Jigawa and Nigeria,” insisting that they trust his judgement and leadership.

    They also urged the Jigawa State PDP leadership to facilitate an immediate meeting with Lamido so the group can formally present its position.

    The communiqué ended with a pledge of unwavering loyalty to the former governor: “Wherever he goes, we will follow.”

  • Closing schools over abduction means caving in to terrorists, PDP tells Govt

    Closing schools over abduction means caving in to terrorists, PDP tells Govt

    • Stop politicising kidnap victims’ pains, ex-lawmakers warn party

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has told the Federal Government that closing schools as a solution to the abductions of school children by bandits amounts to surrendering to the machinations of terrorist groups.

    PDP’s National Publicity Secretary Tanimu Turaki, who was accompanied by the leader of a faction of the party, Ini Ememobong, said this while addressing reporters yesterday in Abuja.

    The PDP chieftains said rather than close schools, the government should develop a comprehensive plan to combat the menace.

    They urged the government to avoid what he called a simplistic approach of closing schools in a bid to prevent further kidnappings and to score cheap political points.

    The PDP chieftains said the government should also seek local and foreign assistance in combating the activities of terror groups, adding that the PDP would be willing to help the government if it asks for such assistance.

    Ememobong said: “…If the schools are closed, the goal of the terrorists would have been inadvertently achieved.

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    “…We charge the Federal Government to immediately fund and implement the National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools anchored on community intelligence and quick security response, capable of anticipating and contending with attacks on schools. Insecurity in schools will be a big disincentivisation for education in the country, especially in Northern Nigeria.”

    But the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) warned the PDP against turning the nation’s security challenges, particularly the recurring school kidnappings, into tools for political attacks.

    In a statement by its National Coordinator, Nnana Igbokwe, the forum expressed disappointment over recent remarks credited to the PDP on the Federal Government’s handling of abductions in parts of the country.

    The statement said: “It is unfortunate that the PDP could turn an issue as sensitive as kidnapping into a political tool of attack just to score cheap political points.

    “What is expected of any consciously reasoning citizen or responsible organisation is to proffer advice or meaningful solutions on how this cankerworm can be tamed.”

    The NFFL accused the opposition party of exploiting national distress, warning that such rhetoric risks escalating tensions and undermining ongoing efforts to tackle criminality.

    It urged the PDP to demonstrate restraint and patriotism by avoiding actions that “toy with the emotions of Nigerians” at a time many families are traumatised.

  • Stop politicising the pain of kidnap victims, former lawmakers warn PDP

    Stop politicising the pain of kidnap victims, former lawmakers warn PDP

    The National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) has warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against turning the nation’s security challenges, particularly the recurring school kidnappings, into tools for political attacks.

    In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Hon. Nnana Igbokwe, the Forum expressed disappointment over recent remarks credited to the PDP on the federal government’s handling of abductions in parts of the country.

    The NFFL said such comments were insensitive to the trauma of victims, their families, and the collective anxiety shared by Nigerians grappling with rising insecurity.

    According to the Forum, moments of national grief should inspire unity and constructive engagement, not “opportunistic attempts to weaponise tragedy for political gains.”

    “Unfortunately, the PDP could turn an issue as sensitive as kidnapping into a political tool of attack just to score cheap political points,” the statement read. “What is expected of any conscious reasoning citizen or responsible organisation is to proffer advice or meaningful solutions on how this cankerworm can be tamed.”

    The NFFL accused the opposition party of exploiting national distress, warning that such rhetoric risks escalating tensions and undermining ongoing efforts to tackle criminality. It urged the PDP to demonstrate restraint and patriotism by avoiding actions that “toy with the emotions of Nigerians” at a time when many families remain traumatised.

    Beyond cautioning the PDP, the Forum criticised what it described as the party’s refusal to put its own house in order. “Rather than abide by their party constitution and obey court pronouncements, they prefer to waste their energy seeking undue public attention and sympathy by raising misleading claims,” it said.

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    The former lawmakers called for unity of purpose in confronting insecurity, insisting that political parties should support—not sabotage—efforts aimed at restoring public safety. They urged security agencies to intensify investigations into suspected politically sponsored criminal activities allegedly designed to discredit the government.

    “At this crucial moment, Nigerians deserve responsible leadership, not divisive politics,” the Forum stressed. “Political actors must rise above partisan calculations and support every effort aimed at restoring peace, protecting our children, and ensuring national stability.”

    The NFFL reaffirmed its readiness to back initiatives that strengthen security institutions, promote peace, and safeguard lives nationwide.

    It also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent rescue of 38 kidnapped persons in Eruku community, Kwara State, describing it as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to citizens’ safety.

  • PDP warns against school closures over kidnappings, urges comprehensive security strategy

    PDP warns against school closures over kidnappings, urges comprehensive security strategy

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned against shutting down schools in response to the kidnapping of students by bandits, warning that such action would amount to yielding to the demands of terror groups.

    Speaking at a news conference on Sunday, national publicity secretary of the Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the party, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said the government should adopt a comprehensive strategy to tackle the menace rather than taking the simplistic approach of closing schools to prevent further abductions or score political points.

    He urged the administration to seek both local and international support in combating the activities of terror groups, adding that the PDP is willing to assist the government if called upon.

    Ememobong highlighted the recent surge in kidnappings under the APC-led Tinubu administration, citing incidents involving 25 students in Kebbi State and 315 students and staff in Niger State, emphasising the urgent need for effective security measures.

    “Each of these kidnappings leaves a trail of sorrows, tears, blood, fear, and deep anguish on the families of those affected and their communities. In response, different state governments in the affected region have taken disparate measures, while the federal government has yet to give any direction.

    “We are aware that the closure of schools in these areas is already being implemented by some state governments and is currently being contemplated by the Federal Government.

    “We warn that this closure, if undertaken, like many of this administration’s quick-fix approaches to serious governance issues, will amount to a complete surrender to terrorists, whose sole aim is to shut down schools and prevent children from obtaining formal education, which they declare forbidden. If the schools were closed, the goal of the terrorists would have been inadvertently achieved.

    “Rather, we urge the government to develop a comprehensive plan to combat the issue, instead of resorting to a simplistic approach of closing schools in a bid to prevent further kidnappings and to score cheap political points, quite characteristic of this administration.

    “This alarm is crucial because a closure of schools will certainly exacerbate the already challenging educational situation in Northern Nigeria, where, according to UNICEF, the majority of the 18.3 million out-of-school children (10.2 million at the primary level and 8.1 million at the secondary level) in Nigeria reside.

    “This data not only paints a grim picture but also mirrors the exact situation in Nigeria. The series of attacks and kidnappings in different states within a week is indicative of the alarming insecurity that has become the contemporary lived experience and new reality of Nigerians under the APC-led Bola Tinubu government.

    “More troubling is the fact that when these unfortunate incidents happen, the administration’s response is usually lacklustre and unempathetic.

    “For example, instead of the President visiting Kebbi and Niger States to meet and sympathise with the parents of the children who are in captivity, and to address the security personnel there, he merely directed the Minister of State for Defence to relocate to Kebbi.

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    “A juxtaposition of the contingents sent to the US Congress and the G-20 meeting with Matawalle’s lone envoy exposes the levity with which the presidency treats this matter. This reaction is most insensitive and dismissive of the gravity of the problem by the APC-led Federal Government.

    “We charge the federal government to immediately fund and implement the National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools, anchored on community intelligence and quick security response, capable of anticipating and contending with attacks on schools. Insecurity in schools will be a big disincentivisation for education in the country, especially in Northern Nigeria.

    “We again remind the President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and the entire APC-led administration that the security of lives and property is the primary function of any government. At any time, the government is unwilling, unable, or incapable of executing this primary role, such a government must either ask for help (locally or internationally) or honourably resign, if it is sincere and responsible.”

  • Sokoto PDP youths, students reject expulsion of Bature

    Sokoto PDP youths, students reject expulsion of Bature

    Sokoto Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) youths and students stakeholders forum has rejected what it described as purported expulsion of the party’s National Organising Secretary, Hon. Umar Bature by a faction of the party saying ” the action is null, void and ineffective.”

    It said the action lacked the constitutional backing , moral justification or political legitimacy emanating from an unverified factional convention that has no standing in the PDP.

    The forum urged the public and PDP faithful to disregard with utmost passion what it described as lies being  circulated.

    Bature with other top members of the party, including the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike were last week expelled from the party for alleged “anti party ” activities amidst factional crisis rocking  the opposition party.

    Addressing journalists at a press conference in Sokoto , Chairman of the forum, Comrade Bala Bello and Secretary , Comrade Nasiru Yakubu said the expulsion of Hon. Bature was unconstitutional and absolutely of no effect.

    ” The controversy emanates from an unverified and factional convention purportedly conducted by a splinter group claiming to act on behalf of the PDP,” they stated. 

    They noted that Bature remains a dependable political stabiliser to the party for dousing internal tensions and pathing for peaceful resolutions at critical moments, hence, remains an unshaken, fully, legally and unquestionable member of the PDP with unwavering commitment.

    The forum added: “Attempt at labeling such a political stabiliser as ” anti party ” is not only false but shameful, stressing that those behind the decision we’re neither recognised nor sanctioned by the legitimate organs of the party.

    While in solidarity with the former HoRs member, the forum described Bature  as a resilient and passionate politician who stood by the party at times of serious crisis to avoid plunging it into more deeper chaos.

  • PDP: A comedy of errors

    PDP: A comedy of errors

    Sir: What unfolded in Ibadan over the weekend was not the usual party ritual. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in a sweeping declaration, expelled several influential figures including the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti governor Ayo Fayose, and Senator Samuel Anyanwu over alleged anti-party activities. The announcement landed with the force of a political earthquake: celebrated in some quarters, rejected in others, and immediately questioned by senior party leaders who fear the move may open more wounds than it heals.

    A political party has both the right and responsibility to enforce discipline. Parties survive on order, not on free-ranging defiance. But discipline is not merely punishment; it is also process, consensus and timing. When sanctions emerge from a factional climate, they risk looking less like internal order and more like internal cleansing. This is the tight corner in which the PDP now finds itself.

    The reactions speak volumes. Although the convention passed the resolution openly, several governors quickly dissociated themselves from the expulsions. Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who played a central role at the gathering, explicitly called for reconciliation rather than banishment. Others warned that the decision could worsen the party’s fractures, not mend them. Their concerns are neither sentimental nor partisan; they reflect a long-standing fear that the PDP has not fully recovered from years of internal bitterness and competing centres of power.

    Beyond the drama, the stakes are serious. First is electoral strategy. Whether loved or disliked, Wike remains a formidable mobiliser. Alienating him risks shrinking the PDP’s base in states where margins decide outcomes. Second is institutional credibility. Nigerians have watched the party struggle with internal cohesion since 2015; selective punishment only reinforces the view that discipline is invoked when convenient, not when consistent. Third is public confidence. A party seeking to rebuild its national relevance cannot afford decisions that deepen doubts about its internal democracy.

    Then there is the issue of procedure. Party constitutions typically require investigation, notice and fair hearing before expulsion. From the publicly available information, the Ibadan decision appeared more declaratory than procedural. If due process was not followed in both letter and spirit, the expulsions may not withstand internal arbitration or judicial review. That uncertainty alone sets the stage for further conflict.

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    Why then did the party choose such a dramatic route? The answer likely lies in a mixture of frustration and political calculation. After years of unresolved disputes from the fallout of the 2023 presidential primaries to state-level divisions, party leaders may feel compelled to draw a line. Some see a firm hand as necessary to reassert authority. Yet firmness without political wisdom risks worsening instability. Already, warnings from governors suggest that the move is seen as hasty rather than strategic.

    It must also be said plainly: Wike is no passive victim. His confrontational style, open defiance of party signals, and alliance-building outside established structures have been major sources of tension. The leadership’s desire for discipline is understandable. But politics is not a courtroom; it is a negotiation of interests. Parties succeed when they enforce rules and maintain channels for accommodation. When reconciliation is abandoned for raw sanction, discipline loses its effectiveness and becomes a catalyst for schism.

    What should the PDP do now? The answer lies not in doubling down but in stepping back. First, the party should immediately activate its reconciliation machinery genuine, inclusive and transparent. Second, sanctions of this magnitude should be revisited, reviewed or converted into temporary measures pending mediated dialogue. Third, the dispute-resolution organs must be strengthened to prevent future escalations. Finally, the party must speak to Nigerians with humility, not triumphalism. A national opposition party cannot present itself as a house unable to manage its own disagreements.

    Nigeria’s democracy needs strong parties, not weakened ones. Internal dissent will always exist; what matters is how it is managed. Discipline without dialogue is brittle; dialogue without standards is chaotic. The PDP is again caught between the two. If it mistakes a political crisis for a disciplinary triumph, it risks deepening the fractures it seeks to cure.

    •Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu, Abuja.