PDP Crisis: Jonathan Pledges Deeper Involvement, Says Turaki

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has pledged to take a more active role in the affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections. This assurance was disclosed by the PDP National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), following a closed-door meeting between the party’s top leadership and the former President in Abuja.

The meeting, held at Jonathan’s Maitama office on Tuesday, brought together members of the National Working Committee (NWC), former governors, founding fathers and mothers of the party, and selected state chairmen. It comes at a critical moment for the PDP, which is grappling with internal leadership disputes, ongoing litigation, and preparations for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states.

Jonathan Reaffirms Loyalty and Commitment to PDP

According to Turaki, the delegation visited Jonathan primarily to formally introduce the newly elected members of the NWC and to brief him on the state of the party since the National Convention held in Ibadan last November. He said the former President was extensively briefed on the PDP’s challenges, prospects, and ongoing efforts to reposition the party ahead of forthcoming elections.

Turaki noted that Jonathan reassured party leaders of his continued loyalty to the PDP, stressing that he remains a card-carrying member and feels a strong sense of obligation to the party. He added that Jonathan’s pledge to be “even more active” was encouraging for the leadership and supporters of the party as it navigates a difficult period.

The PDP chairman also revealed that Jonathan acknowledged the role the party had played in his political career and expressed readiness to contribute to its stability and growth. Although speculation had previously emerged about Jonathan’s possible interest in the 2027 presidential race after the PDP zoned its ticket to the South, the former President has neither confirmed nor denied such ambitions.

Party Crisis, Legal Battles, and Search for Reconciliation

A major focus of the meeting was the lingering leadership crisis within the PDP, with two factions laying claim to the position of national chairman. Turaki explained that Jonathan offered valuable advice on resolving the crisis, noting that not all political disputes should be settled in court. However, he clarified that the party had been compelled to defend itself legally, as most of the cases were instituted against the PDP.

He said the new leadership remains open to political solutions and reconciliation but would only engage with individuals genuinely willing to return to the party fold. Turaki reiterated that inclusivity, fairness, and an end to impunity would guide the current NWC, adding that the PDP belongs to the Nigerian people and must reflect their aspirations.

The leadership crisis has also affected the party’s dealings with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has declined to recognise PDP candidates in Ekiti due to the unresolved disputes. Despite this, Turaki maintained that the PDP remains Nigeria’s strongest opposition party and a viable platform for winning elections.

Consultations with Elder Statesmen and the Road to 2027

Beyond Jonathan, the Turaki-led NWC has continued consultations with prominent elder statesmen, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida, as well as former Defence Minister T.Y. Danjuma. These engagements, according to party leaders, are aimed at restoring unity and strengthening the PDP ahead of the 2027 polls.

Those present at the Maitama meeting included former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, PDP founding father Prof. Jerry Gana, National Secretary Taofeek Arapaja, National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong, and Deputy National Secretary Richard Ihediwa, among others. Jonathan, however, declined to speak to journalists after the meeting, simply escorting his visitors out.

As the Peoples Democratic Party confronts internal divisions and external pressures, Jonathan’s renewed engagement is being viewed within the party as a stabilising factor. Party leaders expressed optimism that his guidance and experience would help steer the Peoples Democratic Party through its present challenges and reposition it for future electoral contests.