The Taminu Turaki political group has shifted its allegiance away from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, opting instead to support the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) led by Abdulrahman Mohammed and backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The decision marks a major development in the party’s ongoing internal reconciliation efforts.
Turaki told reporters that the move is aimed at ending protracted disputes within the party and restoring peace. He emphasised that engaging with the NCWC is necessary to ensure the party remains a viable platform ahead of future elections.
The group urged its members to tone down aggressive rhetoric and actions, signalling a willingness to prioritise unity over factional conflicts.
The position adopted by Turaki appears to contradict Governor Makinde’s recent statements.
Speaking in Bauchi during a visit to Governor Bala Mohammed, Makinde had insisted that he would not collaborate with the Wike-backed NCWC, warning that such engagement could indirectly support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a move he opposed.
Makinde reiterated a similar stance during a meeting with supporters in Ibadan, where he pledged backing for party members seeking elective positions on alternative platforms, to be revealed on April 18.
Despite these contradictions, Turaki expressed optimism that the party can still reconcile.
“Leaders on both sides have broken the ice and are exploring various pathways towards a lasting resolution,” he said.
He stressed that choosing peace over conflict is a pragmatic approach for the overall benefit of party members, particularly supporters eager for a functional and effective PDP.
The group’s leader added that the reconciliation process would include deliberate efforts to identify and manage disruptive elements within the party.
Turaki assured that the path of compromise would involve sacrifices but affirmed that the PDP would remain strong and viable.
“We are willing to bend as far as our necks and backs allow for the overall interest of the party,” he said, underscoring the group’s commitment to a peaceful resolution.
Turaki also highlighted the importance of compliance with party regulations, confirming that members seeking elective positions would be supported in accordance with Article 6(2) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).
He commended Nigerians who have engaged with the party via its e-registration platform and noted that Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde had received a vote of confidence from the NCWC for their resilience during recent challenges.
Meanwhile, Wike reiterated that there is no formal faction within the PDP. Speaking after inspecting projects in the FCT, he emphasised that while disagreements exist, the party remains united.
“There is only one PDP. Some individuals may not be happy, yes, but there is no faction,” he said.
He confirmed that reconciliation efforts will continue alongside preparations for the party’s convention in Abuja.
The PDP in Kwara State also indicated its readiness to participate in the national convention despite national-level disputes. State Chairman Isa Adamu described the state party as non-aligned, adding that they would remain in the PDP unless it ceases to serve as a viable political platform.
Calls for unity were echoed by former Deputy Speaker and PDP Board of Trustees member Chibudom Nwuche. He urged aggrieved leaders and members to set aside differences and embrace reconciliation ahead of the 2027 general elections. The statement followed the party’s 107th National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, signalling a continued push for consolidation.
