Proceedings within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday centred on a dispute over the legitimacy of an interim National Working Committee (NWC) allegedly backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and convened by a group of party stakeholders in Abuja.
The Abdulrahman Mohammad-led NWC dismissed the caretaker structure, which named Tanimu Turaki as chairman and Taofeek Arapaja as secretary, describing it as illegal, unconstitutional, and of no effect.
The party’s position was contained in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed Jagundo, who said the gathering that produced the interim arrangement had no authorisation from the recognised leadership of the PDP.
Jagundo argued that it was contradictory for the organisers to constitute a caretaker committee after previously insisting that the party’s constitution does not allow such a structure.
He further faulted the process on legal grounds, stating that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was not given the mandatory 21-day notice required for such a meeting under the Electoral Act, rendering the exercise invalid.
The NWC also questioned the involvement of key stakeholders, including PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Adolphus Wabara, alleging that he had been expelled at ward level and therefore lacked the authority to participate in party decisions.
It advised party members, supporters, and the public to disregard the resolutions of the Abuja meeting, insisting that the interim committee has no constitutional backing or legal authority.
Despite the rejection, Tanimu Turaki, who emerged as interim chairman from the disputed meeting, said the group remained committed to repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said the PDP faced serious challenges but expressed confidence that the party would stabilise and present a strong presidential candidate capable of winning the next election.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who backed the meeting, acknowledged internal tensions within the party but urged members not to be discouraged, saying the PDP remained capable of overcoming its current difficulties.
He insisted that the electoral umpire must act strictly in line with constitutional provisions, adding that the party would continue to defend its internal democratic processes.
Other stakeholders at the meeting maintained that the interim structure was necessary to prevent a leadership vacuum and restore stability following recent court and convention-related disputes within the party.
