Turaki-led PDP Vows To Contest Elections, Reasserts Role As Opposition To APC

Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed its determination to contest upcoming elections and provide a strong democratic counterweight to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) declaring that “hope is not lost” despite ongoing internal disputes.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, emphasized that the party remains committed to reconciliation efforts while preparing to fully participate in the electoral process.

The briefing followed an earlier advisory by the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, which urged aggrieved factions within the party to pursue reconciliation in order to safeguard its future and ensure aspirants have a viable platform in the coming elections.

Turaki disclosed that the party’s Board of Trustees, led by Adolphus Wabara, had constituted a high-level committee to engage estranged members and resolve lingering disputes. According to him, this move was part of a broader effort to “reposition the party for the elections.”

“In obedience to the advisory of the Court of Appeal… a high-powered committee [was set up] to interface with our estranged party members,” he said.

He noted that the party leadership had taken steps to demonstrate good faith, including postponing key meetings and reducing confrontational rhetoric. However, he expressed concern that such gestures had not yet been reciprocated.

“While we expected a reciprocal gesture, what we have witnessed instead is the weaponisation of hurtful rhetoric and the issuance of derogatory statements,” Turaki stated, urging all factions to act in the interest of party unity.

Despite the tensions, he revealed that progress is being made. “As of today, leaders on both sides have broken the ice and are exploring various pathways towards a lasting resolution,” he said, calling on supporters to “de-escalate high-tempered communications.”

Crucially, Turaki insisted that the PDP will not withdraw from the democratic process. “By the grace of God, our party will field candidates for all elective offices,” he assured, reinforcing the party’s readiness to compete nationwide.

Framing the PDP’s role within Nigeria’s broader democratic system, Turaki stressed the necessity of a strong opposition.

“Democracy is not merely about the periodic conduct of elections; it also requires a virile opposition and an active civil society to hold government accountable,” he said.

He added that the PDP, describing it as “Nigeria’s only surviving legacy party” with 16 years of governance experience, is uniquely positioned to fulfill that role.

The chairman also delivered a pointed message to those currently in power: “They are delegates of the people, and their actions must, at all times, align with the will of the people. Ultimate power resides with the people.”

In a show of internal solidarity, the party leadership passed a vote of confidence on Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde, praising their “resilience and steadfast leadership” amid recent challenges.

Turaki struck a defiant tone, reassuring Nigerians that the PDP remains a viable political force.

“The PDP is alive and will participate in the forthcoming elections, offering a credible platform for robust political contests at all levels, so that power may truly return to the people,” he declared.

The statement underscores the party’s insistence that, despite internal divisions, it will remain in the race—positioning itself as the principal opposition voice against the APC in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

End.