PDP’s Board of Trustees Establishes Reconciliation Committee
The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a significant step towards resolving internal conflicts by forming a six-member committee. This initiative aims to bring together the various factions within the party and restore unity ahead of key events.
Current Division Within the Party
The National Working Committee (NWC) is currently divided into two groups, each led by prominent figures. One faction is headed by Ambassador Umar Damagum, while the other is led by Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammed. The tension escalated when the Abdulrahman faction, supported by the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, took control of the National Secretariat of the party on Monday.
BoT’s Statement on Reconciliation
In a communique issued after a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, the BoT emphasized its role as the ‘conscience of the party.’ It stated that it will not take sides but will focus on preserving the integrity of the PDP and promoting dialogue over discord. The BoT clarified that the reconciliation effort is not an indication of weakness but rather a demonstration of maturity and responsibility.
“Against this backdrop, the BoT sets up a high-powered committee to immediately reconcile all conflicting sides and restore unity of purpose in our party as we head to the Elective National Convention in Ibadan.”
Composition of the Reconciliation Committee
The communique listed the members of the newly formed committee:
- Amb. Hassan Adamu (North East), Chairman
- Chief Mike Oghiadomhe (South South), Secretary
- Chief Ugochukwu Okeke (South East)
- Sen. Zaynab Kure (North Central)
- Prince Onyinlola Olagunsoye (South West)
- Dr. Lubna Mohammed Gusau (North West)
Wabara, a key figure in the BoT, mandated the Reconciliation Committee to report back on Tuesday, 11th November, 2025, for further action.
Commitment to Unity and Stability
The communique reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to being a united, formidable, and focused political party under the leadership of the Amb. Iliya Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC). It expressed strong support for the NWC, the PDP Governors Forum, the National Convention Organizing Committee, and other critical organs of the party for their roles in stabilizing the party as it moves toward the Elective National Convention.
“The BoT solidly stands with and commends the Amb. Iliya Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC), the PDP Governors Forum, the National Convention Organizing Committee and other critical Organs of the Party for their collective roles in stabilizing our Party, especially as we progress towards the conduct of the Elective National Convention scheduled to hold on the 15th and 16th of November 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State Capital.”
Judicial Support for Internal Autonomy
The BoT welcomed the ruling of the Oyo State High Court, presided over by Justice A L Akintola, which affirmed the constitutional right of the PDP to manage its internal affairs, including holding the 2025 Elective National Convention as scheduled. This ruling was hailed as a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and political development in the country.
Concerns Over Recent Developments
Despite the positive developments, the BoT expressed concern over recent events within the party that have caused understandable worries. Tensions, misunderstandings, and regrettable incidents that have occurred in public, including the invasion of the National Secretariat, do not reflect the ideals and character of the PDP.