The newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Tanimu Turaki, held a private meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on Tuesday.
Turaki told reporters that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the new party leadership to Jonathan following their election at the November 2025 National Convention in Ibadan.
He described Jonathan’s response as “reassuring and very encouraging,” noting that the former president expressed a strong sense of commitment and loyalty to the PDP.
“We have sought his support, guidance, and advice, as always. He has assured us that he remains an active member and will engage even more in party activities,” Turaki said.
“He acknowledged all that PDP has done for him personally and reiterated his continued obligation to the party. His statements are both encouraging and inspiring as we prepare for upcoming off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun this year, and the 2027 general elections.”
Turaki emphasized that despite current internal challenges, the PDP remains the “most veritable platform” for winning elections in Nigeria.
“We continue to be the leading opposition party, and this new leadership is committed to taking the party back to the people, ensuring inclusivity and fairness, and preventing any form of impunity,” he said.
Regarding INEC’s exclusion of the party’s candidate in the Ekiti election, Turaki explained that the PDP had met all statutory requirements and that INEC monitored the primaries and received the necessary data submissions, though access was later blocked.
He added that the PDP is open to reconciliation and is willing to engage with aggrieved members at a “round table” to unite the party.
Attendees at the meeting included former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu; former Minister of Information and National Orientation, Prof. Jerry Gana; PDP South-South Caretaker Committee Chairman Chief Emmanuel Ogidi; National Secretary Taofeek Arapaja; National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong; and Deputy National Secretary Richard Ihediwa.
The Turaki-led leadership has also held similar consultations with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other prominent party figures across the country as part of efforts to strengthen PDP unity and prepare for future elections.