The newly elected National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, has vowed to spearhead a sweeping reform process aimed at restoring internal democracy, rebuilding unity, and resolving the long-standing internal disputes that have weakened the party in recent years.
Speaking during his acceptance address at the PDP national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, Turaki acknowledged the weight of responsibility placed on the new leadership but expressed confidence that the party possesses the resilience to reinvent itself.
“The cross you have given us means you expect us to carry it to the Nigerian people—and we will,” he told delegates. “We are not under any illusion that the task ahead is simple. Our party is at a crossroads, but we are equal to the challenge.”
Turaki, a former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, revealed that the National Working Committee would soon unveil a comprehensive operational framework that will guide the party’s activities in the coming months.
“Very soon, we shall be rolling out our guiding principles and the modus operandi for achieving them. Once that is done, we will hit the ground running from day one,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to accountability and inclusiveness, the new chairman assured members that the mandate entrusted to him would be executed with diligence. He emphasised that the foundation of the PDP has always been its grassroots strength and its longstanding democratic ethos.
“Today, the Peoples Democratic Party remains the only political party that has retained its name since inception. That is because this party belongs to the Nigerian people,” he said. “Make no mistake—we are returning the party to the people. There will be no more impunity.”
Turaki emerged victorious after delegates from 17 states cast their votes to elect new national officers. He secured 1,516 votes to clinch the chairmanship position at the convention held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba.
Announcing the results, former Senator representing Anambra Central, Ben Obi, disclosed that Senator Yakubu Danmarke came second with 275 votes, while former Oyo State Deputy Governor, Taofeek Arapaja, was elected as the new National Secretary of the PDP.