PDP Optimistic at Christmas Amid Leadership Turmoil
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Nigerians to hold on to hope and shared values as Christians across the country mark the Christmas celebration, even as the opposition party grapples with internal leadership and legal challenges.
In a Christmas message released on Wednesday, the party’s National Chairperson, Kabiru Turaki, congratulated Christian faithful within the PDP and across Nigeria, describing the season as a period for reflection on values capable of strengthening the nation.
Mr Turaki called on Nigerians to look to the example of Jesus Christ as a source of inspiration, noting that Christmas highlights virtues essential for national rebirth.
“This season reminds us of the enduring values that Jesus embodied, love, sacrifice, humility, and generous provision for others,” he said.
According to him, these principles remain relevant to Nigeria’s current realities and could help steer the country toward economic growth and social harmony if fully embraced.
He described them as “timeless principles” that could help build “the Nigeria of our collective dreams.”
The PDP chairperson also maintained that the party is committed to reflecting those ideals in its actions and engagements, stressing that resilience often emerges from adversity.
“Even in challenging times, determined people have not only survived, but have emerged stronger and found beauty in ashes,” Mr Turaki said.
His Christmas message comes at a time when the PDP is facing deep internal divisions following his emergence as national chairman at the party’s convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, earlier this year.
His leadership has been challenged by a rival faction reportedly backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, underscoring a long-running struggle over control of the party’s national structure.
The situation has been further complicated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has declined to recognise some members of the party’s newly formed National Working Committee due to unresolved court cases arising from the leadership dispute.
These developments have sparked concerns over the PDP’s readiness for future elections and its capacity to function effectively as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.
Nevertheless, the party struck an optimistic tone in its Christmas message, expressing confidence that perseverance and shared national values would help Nigerians overcome present difficulties.
Mr Turaki prayed that the festive season would usher in “joy, peace and renewed optimism” in homes across the country.
The PDP also extended Christmas and New Year wishes to Nigerians, expressing hope that 2026 would be characterised by unity, peace and “God’s abundant blessings,” as the party continues efforts to resolve its internal crisis and stabilise its leadership.
