PDP: Reconciliation Still Possible After Abuja Convention — Olawepo-Hashim

A presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has said that reconciliation within the party is still achievable despite the recent National Convention held in Abuja, by a faction backed by Nyesom Wike.

While reacting to developments after the convention, Olawepo-Hashim maintained that the PDP cannot afford to sideline any major bloc within its structure, warning that continued division could weaken its standing as a formidable opposition force.

“Nothing has changed to alter the necessity for reconciliation and unity,” he said.

He called on leaders of the contending factions to urgently resume dialogue, emphasising the need to harmonise party structures in line with previous agreements.

Olawepo-Hashim noted that ongoing legal proceedings at the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court provide legitimate avenues for resolving the dispute, adding that a consent judgment remains possible if political compromises are reached.

He further underscored the importance of preserving the PDP’s founding ideals as an inclusive platform, urging stakeholders to prioritise unity over factional interests.

According to him, reconciliation efforts should now focus on resolving structural divisions within the party, including the existence of parallel National Working Committees and conflicting state structures arising from separate congresses.

The PDP has in recent times been plagued by internal wrangling, fuelling concerns about its cohesion and electoral prospects.

However, Olawepo-Hashim expressed optimism that with genuine engagement and political will, the party can overcome its current challenges and restore internal stability.