Presidential aspirant on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has said reconciliation within the party remains possible despite deepening divisions following a recent factional National Convention in Abuja.
The convention, reportedly supported by a camp loyal to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, has widened existing cracks within the party, raising concerns about its unity and readiness for future elections.
Reacting to the development, Olawepo-Hashim stressed that the need for reconciliation remains critical.
“Nothing has changed to alter the necessity for reconciliation and unity,” he said.
He warned against marginalising any bloc within the PDP, noting that such actions could weaken the party’s credibility. “The PDP cannot afford to sideline any major bloc within its structure.
Continued division will only undermine our collective strength and erode public confidence in the party,” he said.
Olawepo-Hashim called on opposing factions to resume dialogue and prioritise the party’s survival over personal or group interests.
“There is an urgent need to harmonise party structures in line with previous agreements, as this remains the only viable path to restoring stability within the PDP,” he added.
He also highlighted ongoing legal proceedings as a channel for resolving disputes arising from parallel conventions and congresses.
READ ALSO: PDP Factions Show Readiness For Reconciliation — Olawepo-Hashim
“There are ongoing proceedings at the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.
These processes provide lawful channels for resolving disputes, and a consent judgment is still possible if the parties are willing to make the necessary political compromises,” he said.
Emphasising the importance of preserving the PDP’s founding ideals, Olawepo-Hashim described the party as an inclusive platform that must not fracture along factional lines.
“The PDP was built as a broad-based platform for all Nigerians.
We must not allow internal disagreements to destroy that legacy. Unity must take precedence over factional considerations,” he said.
He identified parallel National Working Committees and conflicting state structures as key issues fuelling the crisis and urged that these be resolved through sincere reconciliation.
“Reconciliation should focus on resolving structural divisions, including parallel leadership organs and disputes arising from separate congresses across states,” he said.
Olawepo-Hashim expressed optimism that the party can overcome the crisis.
“With sincere dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to the collective good, the PDP can overcome its current challenges and emerge stronger,” he said.