After months of internal wrangling and factional power struggles, leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have stepped up efforts to forge a broad reconciliation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The renewed push comes as the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal prepares to deliver judgment in consolidated cases bordering on the legitimacy of claims to the party’s leadership—legal battles that have deepened cracks within the opposition party since the 2023 presidential primaries.
Lamido, Makarfi Lead Reconciliation Talks
Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, and former Kaduna State Governor, Ahmed Makarfi, confirmed ongoing high-level consultations aimed at healing divisions within the party.
Makarfi, who previously served as PDP Caretaker National Chairman, said reconciliation remains central to current discussions.
“After various posturing, we just have to reconcile. Very soon, after the current legal tussle is concluded—no matter the verdict—stakeholders must be prepared to actualise reconciliation,” he stated.
Lamido echoed similar sentiments, revealing that despite assumptions of political differences between himself and Makarfi, both leaders have engaged in serious discussions to unite various factions before the final court judgment.
“We are convinced that we should put all our differences and prejudices aside. Through ongoing discussions, we are going to resolve our differences and move the party forward,” Lamido said.
Wike Camp Signals Openness
A member of the House of Representatives loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, dismissed claims that the minister is opposed to reconciliation efforts.
According to the lawmaker, Wike has long demonstrated willingness to embrace a pragmatic reconciliation process that would ensure inclusive representation for all stakeholders.
INEC Timetable Spurs Urgency
The renewed reconciliation drive follows the release of the 2027 election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), prompting the PDP to fast-track internal dispute resolution.
National Publicity Secretary of the PDP National Caretaker Working Committee, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, assured members and aspirants that all outstanding litigations and disputes would be resolved ahead of party primaries.
He disclosed that the party deliberately delayed the constitution of its Convention Planning Committee to allow broader inclusion once court matters are settled.
“Our doors are wide open. We are ready to put aside any differences and work together in the overall interest of the party,” Jungudo said, urging aspirants to remain calm and focused.
A Party at a Crossroads
With court judgments looming and the 2027 electoral clock ticking, the PDP faces a defining moment. Stakeholders insist that only genuine reconciliation and unified leadership can reposition the party as a credible alternative platform.
As grassroots mobilisation intensifies, party leaders say the coming months will determine whether the PDP can transform internal crises into renewed political strength ahead of 2027.