By Ayomide Otitoju
In an effort to resolve internal tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party’s Special Reconciliation Committee, led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki, met with Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah on Friday in Enugu.
The closed-door meeting, held at the Government House, Enugu, was part of a wider effort to mend divisions within the party ahead of the upcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and a likely national convention. The committee also includes former Bayelsa State Governor Senator Seriake Dickson and former Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo.
The visit follows mounting tensions in the South East wing of the PDP, where party leaders had recently threatened to reconsider their affiliation with the PDP. This came after the zonal leadership re-nominated former PDP National Youth Leader, Sunday Udeh-Okoye, to complete the remaining tenure of the party’s National Secretary. The group had warned of a possible mass exit if their decision was not upheld.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Saraki emphasized the importance of the South East to the party’s future. “This is the first state we are visiting because we appreciate the role the South East has historically played as the bedrock of our party’s strength,” he said.
Saraki praised Governor Mbah’s leadership and governance, stating that “what is happening in Enugu is a reflection of what Nigerians can expect from PDP-led administrations.”
He described the discussions as “very useful and inspiring,” adding that the committee had gathered valuable input from the meeting that would help ensure a smooth and peaceful convention.
“We believe we have laid the foundation here in Enugu for a new and stronger PDP,” Saraki stated. “There is nothing insurmountable in the challenges ahead. The commitment we have seen from our leaders gives us confidence.”
The reconciliation committee was constituted by the PDP Governors’ Forum following a series of defections and growing dissatisfaction among party members across several regions.
