Bukola Saraki

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed former Senate President Bukola Saraki as chairman of a new reconciliation committee aimed at mending internal rifts ahead of its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for later this month.

The development followed a high-level strategy meeting held Sunday night at the Abuja residence of Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed. The meeting was attended by several party stakeholders, including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, who was present but did not address the press.

In attendance were governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Peter Mbah (Enugu). Also present were former governors such as Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Achike Udenwa (Imo), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), alongside PDP Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun and former Caretaker Chairman Ahmed Makarfi.

Speaking after the meeting, Governor Bala Mohammed said the gathering was to prepare the party for a successful NEC session and national convention and to engage experienced party elders in resolving ongoing internal conflicts.

Mohammed downplayed concerns over recent defections, including those of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, and three Kebbi senators to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He insisted such developments would only strengthen the PDP’s resolve to reclaim lost ground and re-strategise for the future.

The party has been embroiled in post-election crises, most notably the power tussle between former Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. Despite efforts by the party’s leadership, no lasting resolution has been reached.

The Saraki-led reconciliation committee is expected to play a pivotal role in restoring unity within the party and charting a stable course as the PDP prepares for critical decisions in the coming months.