Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, has emerged National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after a tense and highly disputed national convention held on Saturday in Ibadan.
The convention, which drew delegates from the 36 states and the FCT, was characterised by disagreements over zoning arrangements, delays in accreditation, and allegations of last-minute manoeuvres by rival blocs.
Security operatives mounted heavy presence around the venue following heated exchanges among factional groups, which caused brief disruptions before voting commenced.
Turaki, a former Minister of Special Duties, won by a wide margin, with the result announced in the early hours of Sunday after prolonged collation monitored by party agents and observers.
In his acceptance speech, Turaki expressed gratitude to the delegates for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to unite the party.
“We must rebuild trust and restore unity. This mandate is not for me alone but for the collective renewal of our great party,” he said, adding that the PDP would be repositioned as a stronger opposition ahead of future elections.
Party leaders, including governors and former members of the National Working Committee, appealed to aggrieved aspirants to accept the outcome and work with the new leadership.
However, some contestants rejected the result, alleging irregularities and vowing to seek redress through internal party mechanisms.
The Ibadan convention is seen as a crucial moment for the PDP, which has faced prolonged internal disputes. Turaki is expected to embark on consultations aimed at reconciling factions and charting a new strategic direction for the party.
The convention also deepened divisions within the party, following court injunctions filed by some founding members seeking to stop the exercise over alleged injustice, especially regarding the national chairmanship position.
In addition, several influential members, including the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike; former Ekiti governor, Ayodele Fayose; and former National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, were suspended during the exercise.
The coming days will determine whether the convention has succeeded in resolving or further aggravating the party’s lingering crises.
