PDP Crisis: Turaki Group Emerges Interim Working Committee, Makinde Pledges Support

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has pledged support for a newly constituted Interim National Working Committee reportedly emerging from the Turaki group within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The decision was taken at the Makinde-backed 103rd NEC meeting held on Monday in Abuja, following a motion moved by the Edo State PDP Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, and seconded by the party’s ex officio member, Clement Fagboyede.

Other members of the committee include Taofeek Arapaja, who was appointed National Secretary, as well as Daniel Ambrose, Hamza Abuya, Richard Ihediwa, Isah Abubakar, Theophilus Dakashan, Ini Ememobong, Aribisala Adewale Idowu, Baru Shaffi, and Okechukwu Obiechina.

Speaking during a gathering of party stakeholders, Makinde described the current challenges facing the PDP as a critical phase that could signal the birth of a new political order. He urged members not to lose hope, noting that difficult periods often precede renewal.

“For me, this morning is just a word of encouragement,” he said, while appreciating party elders and founding members for their roles in sustaining the party.

The governor also raised concerns over the reported takeover of party offices, including Wadata Plaza and Legacy House, by individuals he suggested were not properly authorised. He questioned the loyalty of some aspirants, citing instances where individuals seeking PDP tickets were publicly associated with rival political interests.

Makinde likened the party’s current situation to “the darkest moment before dawn,” expressing confidence that the PDP has the capacity to overcome its internal challenges and reposition itself ahead of future elections.

“We, as a party, are going through our darkest moment right now because the day is about to break for a new order in our country,” he said.

Throwing his weight behind the planned interim leadership, Makinde assured that stakeholders aligned with the Turaki group would support the Interim National Working Committee once formally inaugurated.

He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to act in accordance with the law and allow internal party processes to stand, urging the electoral body to “redeem its image” amid the ongoing controversy.

“It is unimaginable that INEC should determine who belongs to a political party, rather than the party itself,” he stated.

The governor further warned that actions capable of undermining democracy would ultimately be judged by history, while encouraging party faithful to remain steadfast.

Quoting from the Bible, Makinde concluded on a note of optimism: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”