The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set to hold two critical meetings this week, which could shape the future of the party amidst internal crises and upcoming electoral challenges.
The PDP Governors Forum (PDP-GF) will convene in Abuja on Tuesday, while the National Executive Committee (NEC) is scheduled to meet later on Thursday.
These meetings are expected to address issues concerning the party’s internal disagreements, strategies for unity, and preparations for upcoming elections, including the Ondo Governorship race.
One of the key events leading up to these meetings is the report from the PDP Reconciliation Committee, chaired by former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
The committee, which was tasked with identifying the causes of the party’s recent setbacks and declining political influence, met on Monday to finalize its findings.
The Reconciliation Committee is expected to brief the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) on Tuesday. After the briefing, the NWC, led by Acting National Chairman Ambassador Umar Damagum, will review the report before presenting it to the NEC for final ratification.
The Reconciliation Committee has been working closely with various groups within the party, including the PDP’s National Assembly Caucus.
Speaking to reporters after a lengthy meeting with caucus members that lasted over three hours, Oyinlola expressed optimism about the progress made.
“We’ve had useful discussions, and I believe we have gathered suggestions that will help unite our party and make it formidable. That’s what this evening’s discussions were about.
“One obvious thing is that for any party to enter a political battle and win, it must be united. That’s what we’re aiming for.”
On the upcoming Ondo Governorship election, Oyinlola stated, “The National Reconciliation Committee has toured the South-West, and the Ondo election came up prominently. We are putting our strategies in place.”
When asked who the committee is reconciling, he responded, “Anyone within the party who has a disagreement with someone else, those are the individuals we’re reconciling.”
Regarding rumors of recommendations for suspensions within the party, Oyinlola said, “As far as we’re concerned, I would take that as a rumor for now. We’re meeting with the National Working Committee tomorrow, so after that, you can ask me again.”
