Saraki Appointed to Lead PDP Reconciliation Committee Ahead of Crucial NEC Meeting

BY Rachel Akper
May 12, 2025
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In a strategic move to quell internal unrest and reposition the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections, the PDP Governors’ Forum has appointed former Senate President Bukola Saraki as chairman of a newly constituted reconciliation committee.

The announcement was made following a closed-door meeting of PDP governors, held late Sunday evening and chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State. The seven-member committee is tasked with healing the party’s internal divisions and fostering unity ahead of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27, 2025.

Joining Saraki on the committee are Governors Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Peter Mbah (Enugu), alongside Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West), Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe North), and former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia State).

Saraki, in a brief statement, expressed commitment to the delicate mission. “This assignment is not just about reconciliation; it is about restoring the confidence of our members and rebuilding the PDP into the united political force Nigerians once knew. We are prepared to listen, mediate, and rebuild.”

Governor Bala Mohammed emphasized that the reconciliation committee’s work is urgent and critical, especially as the party prepares for its national convention in August. He warned that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may be capitalizing on PDP’s internal strife, especially in light of recent high-profile defections. Notably, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa recently announced their exit from the PDP to join the APC.

Political observers suggest the party is in a fragile state, with factions jostling for control and strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 elections. The NEC meeting later this month is expected to be a turning point either toward peace and cohesion or further fragmentation.

Social media reactions to the development have been mixed. Commentator Adetunji Adewolu noted, “Saraki is stepping in to heal the wounds in the PDP ahead of the NEC meeting. Can the ‘wounded lions’ find peace before 2027?”

As the PDP grapples with internal dissent and external pressure, all eyes are now on Saraki and his team to steer the party away from further crisis and toward a renewed sense of purpose.