The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum and former governors have appointed former Senate President Bukola Saraki to lead a seven-member reconciliation committee.

Bala Mohammed, Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, announced the appointment following a crucial meeting on Monday in Abuja. He stated that the committee’s role is to engage party members and promote unity ahead of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 27 and the National Elective Convention set for August.

Since the 2023 elections, the PDP has faced significant internal turmoil, with tensions escalating after the fallout between Governor Sim Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike in Rivers State. Additional conflicts arose over leadership issues in the South-South zone and the unresolved vacancy for the National Secretary, which has remained open since December 2024.

Despite various attempts by the party's top organs, including the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, NEC, and the Governors Forum, efforts to resolve the divisions have only deepened the rifts, further splintering state and zonal chapters.

Amid growing unrest within the party, dissatisfaction has caused some members to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The most significant departure occurred on April 23, when Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and other prominent officials switched parties, delivering a substantial blow to the PDP’s reputation and undermining its prospects for the 2027 elections.

Mohammed confirmed that the recent meeting of current and former governors was convened to tackle and resolve some of these ongoing challenges.

He stated, “We discussed some of the issues relating to our party, some existential issues, of cours,e that have been circulating in the media and among us, so that we will be able to navigate smoothly for the NEC scheduled to take place on the 27th of this month. By August, we will have an early convention.

“Many issues and reports have emerged, and this meeting is an opportunity to close ranks and ensure that, at the very least, there are no ill feelings, no qualms, and no misgivings among the leaders of the party. The governors of the party have reached out to our colleagues who have served before and who have more in-depth experience.

“Whatever suggestions or opinions they may offer will go a long way in adding momentum to the success of our NEC and the convention scheduled to take place on specific dates. It will also help reassure our teeming supporters that the PDP is working and remains united.

“There are some gaps here and there. We have set up a committee of seven, headed by His Excellency, the former Senate President and former Governor of Kwara State, Bukola Saraki, to ensure that reconciliation efforts and outreach are conducted swiftly. This will help us achieve a very peaceful and harmonious NEC and convention.”

Regarding the recent defection of Delta State Governor to the APC, the Bauchi State Governor confirmed that this event was one of the key reasons for convening the meeting. He emphasized that party leaders are dedicated to maintaining the strength and resilience of the PDP chapters.

Chairman PDP Governors stated, “Well, this is one of the manifestations of a democratic setup like ours, and it is what is compelling us to come together.

“Rather than weakening us, it is actually making us stronger. We will ensure that the chapters where we have history and established structures are not abandoned.

“Those chapters will be able to produce the next PDP governors, by the grace of God, because we will provide a level playing field in the upcoming convention.

When asked about other specific matters addressed during the meeting, Mohammed said, “I cannot disclose all the issues we discussed. We talked about unity. Definitely, there are some ill feelings, and we are not here to sweep anything under the carpet.

“You already know some of the concerns, some of the litigations in court, some of the misgivings among party members. And while we wouldn’t want to blame the APC for causing the crisis, it is likely that they may be involved.”