Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, has reaffirmed the party’s resilience and optimism for a comeback in the 2027 general elections, dismissing concerns over defections and internal instability.
Wabara made the remarks on Monday in Abuja during the formal inauguration of newly nominated BoT members, representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The event, held at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) Hall, marked a major step in the PDP’s internal reorganisation and strategic planning ahead of future elections.
Among the prominent figures in attendance were former Information Minister Professor Jerry Gana, former Governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu) and Samuel Ortom (Benue), ex-Minister Labaran Maku, former Presidential Adviser Senator Ben Ndi Obi, BoT Secretary Senator Ahmed Makarfi, Senator Zainab Kure, Acting National Secretary Setonji Koshoedo, Financial Secretary Daniel Woyegikuro, and Deputy National Youth Leader Hon. Timothy Osadolor, along with other key members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).
In his address, Wabara praised the enduring spirit of the PDP and its members:
“It is deeply moving to witness the quality and commitment of Nigerians who remain steadfast in the PDP. Today’s inauguration is more than a ceremony, it is a reaffirmation of our dedication to the party’s principles and future.”
Wabara emphasized that the BoT has a vital role in preserving the party’s integrity, offering strategic counsel, and fostering unity.
“We may not meet frequently, but when we do, it is with purpose and wisdom. Some may see us as slow, but we are deliberate and diplomatic. The PDP will rise again and we will succeed in 2027.”
He encouraged the media to convey the event’s significance, adding:
“This gathering dispels any doubts about our unity. As long as the BoT remains vibrant, the PDP remains alive.”
A brief moment of light drama unfolded when Wabara invited the newly inaugurated members to stand for camera recognition. Professor Jerry Gana suggested a shorter version due to time constraints, but Wabara insisted on full recognition. His position was backed by former Governor Ortom, who personally stepped forward to collect his appointment letter a symbolic gesture of unity and mutual respect.
Representing Acting National Chairman Ambassador Iliya Damagum, Acting National Secretary Setonji Koshoedo expressed his gratitude:
“It is symbolic that my first assignment in this role involves working with our elders. The BoT is the conscience of our party, and we, in the NWC, are here to support and draw guidance from you.”
Senator Ahmed Makarfi, BoT Secretary and coordinator of the inauguration, noted that the process of nominating BoT members was still ongoing:
“Today’s event covers those whose nominations have been confirmed. Additional names will be inaugurated as they are finalised.”
He thanked attendees for their presence and reiterated the BoT’s critical role in the PDP’s renewal and strategy for 2027.
The event complied with Sections 31(5) and 32(1) of the PDP Constitution, which define the BoT’s responsibilities — including enforcing party discipline, advising on policy, resolving internal disputes, and protecting party assets.
The inauguration also addressed a previous concern: that 85 out of 127 former BoT members had become inactive. With the new appointees, the party hopes to revitalise its advisory body and present a unified front in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
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