Turaki Takes Charge As PDP Elects New National Leaders

The Peoples Democratic Party has entered a new phase of leadership after delegates elected former Sokoto governor Kabiru Tanimu Turaki as National Chairman during the party’s convention in Ibadan on Saturday night.

The exercise drew thousands of accredited voters to the Lekan Salami Stadium, where top positions were filled to shape the party’s next steps.

Turaki emerged with 1,834 votes, securing the mandate to lead the party at a time of internal strain and rising political pressure. Delegates also returned former Oyo governor Taofeek Arapaja unopposed as National Secretary, reflecting a broad consensus on the party’s administrative direction.

The convention recorded 2,745 accredited delegates, with 275 ballots declared void. Five states—Rivers, Abia, Imo, Plateau and Enugu—did not participate after their suspension at the venue, a motion moved by Governor Seyi Makinde.

Most positions were filled without contest, except for the office of Deputy National Organising Secretary, where Solarin Sunday Adekunle won a tightly contested race. He secured 633 votes ahead of Adelabu Malomo and Olabiyiwa Ogundipe, who finished with 507 and 417 votes respectively.

After his victory, Turaki addressed the delegates and acknowledged the hurdles facing the party. He expressed confidence that the PDP can overcome its troubles and return to strength with collective effort and discipline. He thanked members for trusting the new National Working Committee with the responsibility of rebuilding the party.

He also reflected on the PDP’s long history, noting that the party has remained consistent in identity and purpose since its formation. He said new models and guidelines would soon be introduced to drive the party forward.

In a call for reconciliation, Turaki urged members who left or felt alienated to return, saying the party needs every hand to rebuild and protect Nigeria’s democracy. He appealed to the judiciary to stay within constitutional limits and avoid drifting into political battles best resolved by party structures and democratic processes.