The Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held a consultative session with forums of former PDP governors and ministers on Tuesday in Abuja, as part of efforts to consolidate control and rejuvenate the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

The party remains factionalised, with a rival group led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, heading an interim national caretaker committee chaired by Honourable Mohammed Abdulrahman. However, the Turaki-led NWC, which emerged from the November 15 PDP convention, maintains that the rival faction no longer exists and continues to engage key stakeholders, including state chairmen, the Board of Trustees (BoT), National Assembly members, ex-officio members, and past NWC officials.

In his opening remarks, Turaki stressed the importance of former leaders in shaping PDP during its 16 years in power, urging them to provide guidance to restore the party’s past strength.

“When you talk of the 16 glorious years of the PDP, you are talking of the uncommon projects and legacies delivered by our former governors and the phenomenal work done by our former ministers,” he said. “We are ready to take advice, guidance, and even directives. Mistakes have been made, but having admitted them, we are now ready to correct them. This is a new PDP.”

Former Niger State Governor Dr Babangida Aliyu reflected on the humility and citizen-focused leadership that had made the party popular. “People don’t remember the skyscrapers you build; they remember the good times they enjoyed. Leadership is about respect for the people and understanding the responsibilities you have been given. Since 2015, Nigerians have been unhappy. It is our responsibility to ensure that by 2027 we give succour, hope and direction to this country,” Aliyu said.

Speaking for former ministers, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau commended Turaki for his proactive leadership. “From what I have seen in the last few weeks, the chairman has done far more than we expected. Many Nigerians on the streets are saying, ‘please return us to where you took over from us.’ People say unless you taste the soup of other people’s homes, you will never appreciate the sweetness of your own,” he remarked.

The engagement highlighted PDP’s determination to reclaim power in 2027, aiming to restore the “good old days of the PDP” and provide Nigerians with renewed hope and effective governance.