In a significant political development, former Kaduna State Governor Senator Mohammed Makarfi has officially stepped down from his position as Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party's Board of Trustees. This resignation comes immediately after the party's national convention that saw Kabiru Tanimu Turaki emerge as the new National Chairman.
Resignation Details and Geographical Considerations
The resignation, which took effect on Monday, November 17, 2025, was formally communicated through a letter addressed to the BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara. Makarfi revealed that he had initially attempted to resign approximately two months earlier but was persuaded to remain in position until after the convention.
In his resignation letter made available to journalists in Kaduna, Makarfi emphasized that his decision was primarily driven by his firm belief that the National Chairman and BoT Secretary should not originate from the same geopolitical zone. With Turaki, like Makarfi, hailing from the North West region, the former governor deemed it necessary to step aside to allow the new chairman adequate operational space.
"Now that a chairman has emerged from the North West, where I come from, it's necessary to give him full space to do the needful," Makarfi stated in his resignation letter.
Turaki's New Vision for PDP
Meanwhile, the newly elected PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, has pledged to return power to the Nigerian people through democratic principles. During his acceptance speech at the party's Elective Convention in Ibadan, Turaki made bold promises to eliminate impunity and ensure the party reflects the will of citizens.
Turaki delivered a strong message to the judiciary, urging them to uphold the tenets of democracy and the principle of stare decisis. He cautioned against actions that might be perceived as attempts to truncate Nigerian democracy, emphasizing the need for judicial independence.
The new chairman also introduced what many are calling a "new work ethic" for the party, declaring "No more monkey dey work, baboon dey chop" - a popular Nigerian proverb meaning that those who work should enjoy the fruits of their labor. He reinforced this by stating that "if baboon wants to chop, baboon must be seated to work," signaling an end to the culture of entitlement within the party.
Looking Forward
Makarfi expressed appreciation for the respectful relationship he enjoyed with BoT Chairman Wabara during his tenure, as well as the support from all board members. His departure marks a significant shift in the party's leadership structure as the PDP seeks to reinvent itself under new management.
Turaki highlighted the PDP's enduring brand identity, noting that unlike other political parties that started with it, the PDP has maintained its original name, motto, and logo, making it a recognized political brand throughout Nigeria. This stability, he suggested, provides a solid foundation for the party's renewal and future electoral success.
