…as stakeholders, party bigwigs rally behind former Minister’s bid
Strong indications have emerged that a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), may emerge as the new National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the forthcoming national convention of the main opposition party.
The PDP National Convention is scheduled to hold on November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Sources within the party revealed that of the three names shortlisted for the chairmanship position, Turaki has continued to enjoy overwhelming support from key stakeholders, influential figures, and decision-makers across party lines. His perceived neutrality in past internal crises and his reputation as a unifier are said to be the main factors driving his widespread endorsement.
According to top party sources, stakeholders believe Turaki possesses “the maturity, tact, and political experience” to reconcile the PDP’s various factions and restore unity within its ranks.
“Among all the contenders, Turaki stands out with unmatched credentials and broad appeal. He has never been known to play divisive politics, and that’s exactly what the PDP needs at this crucial point,” a source said.
The former minister, a respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), is reportedly the preferred candidate of several PDP governors, former ministers, and founding members of the party, who view his emergence as “a stabilising factor” for the opposition movement.
Political analyst Dr. Ikenna Agu described Turaki as “the middle ground” the PDP needs to navigate its current storm of crises, adding that his neutrality and integrity place him in a unique position to rebuild the party’s internal cohesion.
“Turaki represents the reconciliatory figure the PDP desperately needs. His background as a legal luminary and his track record in both law and politics make him the right man for the job,” Agu said.
“He is not another politician seeking relevance. His life reflects discipline, excellence, and service. As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, his reputation for integrity and due process stands out.”
Agu recalled that Turaki served as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North under former President Goodluck Jonathan, a role that showcased his diplomatic skills and courage in tackling complex national issues.
“His ability to listen, empathise, and design solutions that accommodate diverse interests without alienating any camp makes him a rare political asset,” Agu noted.
“The PDP doesn’t need a partisan strongman at this point—it needs a bridge-builder, a reconciler, and a visionary. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki embodies all these qualities.”
He added that the former minister’s calm, non-confrontational leadership style would be instrumental in restoring trust and discipline within the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), which has been riddled with factional crises and external interference in recent years.
“Turaki’s neutrality is not aloofness—it is strategic. He has maintained cordial relationships across factions and commands respect across the board. That’s the type of leadership that can inspire unity and restore confidence among party members,” Agu said.
Tracing his political pedigree, Agu noted that Turaki’s long-standing involvement in the PDP—from its formative years through various reform and reconciliation efforts—has prepared him for national leadership.
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“He was a member of the 2004 Political Reform Conference under President Obasanjo, where he contributed significantly to governance and restructuring debates,” he said.
“His tenure as Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs was marked by efficiency and professionalism. His leadership on peace and security dialogues in the North demonstrated courage and patriotism.”
Party insiders predict that other aspirants may eventually step down in favour of Turaki ahead of the convention, citing his cross-regional acceptability and history of collaboration with virtually all factions of the party.
“Many believe Turaki’s emergence will mark a new beginning for the PDP,” one senior member said. “He has the temperament and the credibility to rebuild the party and restore its dominance as a true national platform.”
As the countdown to the Ibadan convention begins, party watchers agree that the choice of chairman will determine whether the PDP regains its lost footing or continues to struggle with internal fractures.
For many stakeholders, the consensus appears clear — Kabiru Tanimu Turaki stands as the man to reconcile, rebuild, and reposition the PDP for national relevance once again.