PDP Accuses Turaki Faction of Sabotage, Vows Convention Will Proceed
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has launched a strong rebuke against a faction led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, accusing it of attempting to derail the party's planned National Convention through fresh court actions. In a firm statement, the party has reaffirmed that the convention will proceed as scheduled, despite the internal challenges.
Dialogue Efforts Ignored, Says PDP Spokesman
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the National Publicity Secretary of the party's National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC), revealed that the Turaki-led group has consistently rebuffed efforts by the party leadership to resolve internal differences through dialogue. Mohammed disclosed that the faction was invited to several peace meetings but failed to attend, insisting that the caretaker committee cannot be accused of sidelining the group in the reconciliation process.
"The leadership of the party, in good faith, extended several invitations and opportunities for reconciliation and dialogue. Regrettably, these overtures were ignored," he said, highlighting the party's frustration with the faction's uncooperative stance.
Court Rulings Affirm Legitimacy of Caretaker Committee
The PDP spokesman stressed that recent court rulings have already settled the question of leadership within the party, affirming the legitimacy of the caretaker committee. According to him, judgments from both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal remain binding and have unequivocally recognized the NCWC as the body duly authorized to steer the affairs of the party.
"We urge all members of our party and the general public to be guided accordingly and disregard any contrary claims or misleading narratives," Mohammed stated, emphasizing the legal backing for the current leadership.
Concerns Over Attempts to Halt Convention
Mohammed expressed concern over what he described as attempts by the Turaki group to secure an injunction from a court in Ibadan to halt the forthcoming convention. He warned that such actions could undermine party stability and called on the judiciary to take note of what he termed abuse of court processes aimed at frustrating the legitimate activities of the party.
Despite this, he reaffirmed the PDP's confidence in the courts as the "last hope of the common man," indicating a belief in the judicial system's ability to uphold justice.
Preparations Finalized for National Convention
Despite the internal rift, the party maintained that preparations for its National Convention slated for March 29 and 30, 2026, have been concluded. Mohammed provided a categorical assurance to all Nigerians, particularly PDP members across the country, that the event will proceed as planned.
"All necessary arrangements have been concluded, and the party is fully prepared to deliver a successful, transparent, and credible convention," he said, underscoring the party's readiness.
Call for Unity and Focus
The PDP urged its members to remain law-abiding and focused, insisting that the party remains united and determined to move forward. This call to action aims to rally support and maintain cohesion amidst the ongoing disputes, with the leadership emphasizing a forward-looking approach to overcome internal challenges.
