By Adesakin Adefemi
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Monday appointed former Minister of Special Duties Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, as Chairman of its Interim National Working Committee, deepening the party’s leadership crisis.
Turaki was named to lead a 13-member caretaker team during the party’s 103rd National Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja. The meeting, aligned with Governor Makinde’s camp, moved to fill what it described as a vacuum in the party’s national leadership.
The motion to appoint Turaki was moved by Edo State PDP Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, and seconded by ex-officio NEC member Clement Fagboyede. It was adopted after deliberations by members loyal to the Makinde bloc.
The NEC also ratified the full list of the interim leadership tasked with steering the party’s affairs. Taofeek Arapaja was named National Secretary of the Caretaker Body.
Other members of the Interim NWC include Daniel Ambrose, Hamza Abuya, Ihediwa, Isah Abubakar, Theophilus Dakashan, Ini Ememobong, Aribisala Adewale Idowu, Baru Shaffi, and Okechukwu Obiechina. The committee is expected to oversee party operations pending further directives.
The Makinde-backed NEC said the decision was necessary to restore order and reposition the PDP ahead of critical political activities leading to the 2027 general elections. It cited the need for a “credible and unifying structure” to drive reconciliation.
Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former minister, is seen as a consensus figure within the Makinde camp. In his brief remarks after the appointment, he pledged to run an inclusive administration and consult widely with stakeholders across the six geopolitical zones.
The development marks another twist in the PDP’s prolonged internal wrangling. A rival faction has rejected previous moves by the Makinde bloc, setting the stage for further legal and political battles over the party’s authentic leadership.
Party sources said the interim committee will prioritize rebuilding state chapters, resolving outstanding congress disputes, and preparing a roadmap for the next national convention. No date has been fixed for the convention.
