As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares for its national convention scheduled for November in Ibadan, Oyo State, members of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) have outlined their expectations for the next national chairman.
Party leaders have stressed the need for inclusive leadership, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to unity ahead of the 2027 general election.
In exclusive interviews, former PDP National Secretary, Ibrahim Tsauri, and Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, expressed confidence that the incoming National Chairman and by extension, the National Working Committee (NWC) would rejuvenate the party in preparation for the polls.
At its 102nd NEC meeting held on August 25 in Abuja, the PDP resolved to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, while reserving the position of national chairman for the North.
Following this decision, northern party leaders convened over the weekend and further micro-zoned the chairmanship slot to the North-West.
Last week, northern PDP governors—led by Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri—and other stakeholders endorsed former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as the North’s consensus candidate for national chairman.
However, some northern party members, reportedly backing former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, and led by the PDP National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, expressed dissatisfaction, claiming they were not consulted before the endorsement.
Meanwhile, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is said to be supporting his ally, former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, for the position.
Speaking on the party’s expectations, Tsauri said the upcoming convention should mark a new era of collective leadership for the PDP.
“What we are advocating is collective and credible leadership made up of individuals with integrity, capacity, and genuine commitment to the ideals of the PDP,” he said.
“We are optimistic that the next national chairman and the NWC will embody these qualities and work selflessly to rebuild, reposition, and restore the party’s credibility ahead of future elections.”
He added that the new leadership must enforce party discipline, uphold the constitution, and ensure a level playing field for all members.
“Such leadership will foster unity, fairness, and renewed confidence. Many who left will return, and those who stayed will be encouraged to remain steadfast.”
Tsauri expressed optimism that the PDP would bounce back stronger, calling it “the only truly national political party with robust structures across the country.”
On his part, Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor advised that the incoming chairman should learn from past administrations and prioritise engagement across all factions.
“The next national chairman must learn to listen, engage, and understand all sides within the party,” Osadolor said.
“Whoever leads must not come with a personal mission but see the role as a call to reposition the party for victory and unity.”
He added that reconciliation and sacrifice are key “The new leadership must preach harmonisation, promote reconciliation, and be ready to sacrifice for the PDP and Nigeria at large.”
Advertisement
