A former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Kabiru Turaki, has been elected the new National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a convention marked by withdrawals, strategic maneuvering and renewed debates over internal democracy within the opposition party.
Turaki’s emergence was confirmed late Saturday night by former Anambra Central lawmaker, Senator Ben Obi, who served as the chief returning officer for the PDP national convention held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The convention drew thousands of delegates, stakeholders and political observers, many of whom anticipated a competitive race for the party’s top administrative seat.
However, the contest took an unexpected turn after the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Katsina State, Lado Danmarke, abruptly withdrew from the race shortly before voting commenced. His withdrawal effectively cleared the path for Turaki, who proceeded to run unopposed for the party’s highest office.
Obi noted that despite Danmarke’s withdrawal, his name remained on the ballot, allowing delegates the option to express their preference. Surprisingly, Danmarke secured 275 votes, a development observers say reflects pockets of dissatisfaction within the party’s ranks.
Turaki, however, garnered overwhelming support from the delegates, securing 1,516 votes to clinch the position. His victory was met with applause from his supporters, who described him as a “bridge-builder” capable of steering the PDP toward national relevance ahead of future elections.
The convention was characterized by speeches emphasizing unity, restructuring of party organs and preparations for upcoming political cycles. Party leaders said Turaki’s mandate includes stabilizing internal structures, reconciling aggrieved blocs and rebuilding public trust after contentious years marked by defections, electoral losses and leadership disputes.
Analysts believe Turaki’s unopposed emergence raises larger questions about the state of internal pluralism within the PDP. Some members view the development as a pragmatic move to maintain stability, while critics argue it signals a shrinking space for competitive leadership within the party.
In his acceptance remarks, Turaki promised inclusive leadership and pledged to reposition the PDP as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s ruling party. He called on members to put aside grievances and unite behind a common agenda, stressing that the task ahead requires cooperation across all levels of the party.
The outcome of the convention is expected to generate significant political reactions in the coming days as party stakeholders assess what Turaki’s leadership could mean for the PDP’s strategy heading into the next general elections.
With his election now formalized, Turaki will begin the immediate task of assembling a new administrative team, strengthening grassroots structures and navigating the intricate web of party interests that define Nigeria’s political landscape.
