Breaking: Kabiru Tanimu Turaki Emerges PDP National Chairman
Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria has been elected National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following a tense and highly controversial national convention held in Ibadan.
The convention, which drew delegates from all 36 states and the FCT, was marked by sharp disagreements over zoning, accreditation delays, and allegations of last-minute manoeuvres by rival blocs.
Security was tightened around the venue as factional groups exchanged accusations, prompting brief disruptions before the commencement of voting.
Despite the tension, Turaki, a former Minister of Special Duties, secured a clear majority to secure the top spot.
His victory was announced in the early hours of Sunday after hours of vote collation monitored by party agents and observers.
In his acceptance speech, Turaki thanked delegates for their confidence and promised to heal divisions within the party.
“We must rebuild trust and restore unity. This mandate is not for me alone but for the collective renewal of our great party,” he said, pledging to reposition the PDP as a more formidable opposition ahead of the next general elections.
Party leaders, including several governors and former National Working Committee members, urged aggrieved aspirants to accept the outcome and work with the new leadership.
However, some contestants have already rejected the result, alleging irregularities and vowing to press for redress through internal mechanisms.
The Ibadan convention marks a critical turning point for the PDP, which has battled prolonged internal rifts.
Turaki is expected to immediately begin consultations aimed at reconciling factions and setting a new strategic direction for the party.
The convention has also led to the polarisation of the party with several founding members having secured court injunctions to prevent it going ahead due to alleged injustices especially on the position of the National Chairman.
The convention also announced the suspension of Several influential members including FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose and Former National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu among others.
The days ahead will determine if the convention has indeed been able to put all its various crisis behind it.