Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, a former minister and senior lawyer, has been elected national chairman of Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party, securing a decisive victory at the party’s convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Turaki, who previously served as Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, won 1,516 of the 1,834 votes cast by delegates. His closest rival, Senator Lado Danmarke, withdrew from the race but still garnered 275 votes.
The outcome was announced late Saturday by Senator Ben Obi, who oversaw the collation process. Delegates erupted in applause as Turaki’s name was declared, signaling a new chapter for the opposition party.
The convention unfolded against a backdrop of internal strife. In recent weeks, the PDP expelled several prominent figures, including former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, citing alleged anti-party activities.
Turaki’s election is widely seen as an attempt to stabilize the party after months of factional disputes. Analysts say his emergence reflects a consensus among party leaders to rally behind a candidate with both legal expertise and political experience.
In his acceptance speech, Turaki pledged to rebuild trust within the PDP and restore its credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections. “This mandate is not about me alone,” he said. “It is about repositioning our party to serve Nigerians with integrity and purpose.”
Reactions poured in from across the political spectrum. Governor Alex Otti of Abia State congratulated Turaki, calling his victory “a unifying moment for the PDP.” Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah described the outcome as “a reflection of the delegates’ confidence in his leadership.”
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State emphasized regional cooperation, saying, “Turaki’s win strengthens the Southeast’s voice in national development. I look forward to continued collaboration.” Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also sent his congratulations, noting, “Your clean sweep is a testament to your dedication and the people’s belief in your leadership.”
Party elders echoed similar sentiments. Former Senate President David Mark hailed the election as “a turning point for the PDP,” while ex-Governor Ibrahim Shekarau described Turaki as “a bridge-builder who can heal divisions and restore confidence.”
Civil society groups monitoring the convention praised the orderly conduct but urged the new chairman to prioritize internal democracy. “The PDP must show Nigerians that it can practice the transparency it preaches,” said Ngozi Okeke of the Anambra Civic Watch.
The PDP, once Nigeria’s dominant political force, has struggled to regain footing since losing power in 2015. Turaki’s leadership will be tested as he seeks to unify a fractured base and craft a strategy capable of challenging the ruling party.
For Turaki, the chairmanship represents both opportunity and burden. His success will depend on whether he can translate Saturday’s victory into sustained momentum for a party eager to reclaim national relevance.
