By Ayomide Otitoju
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has ushered in a new leadership era as former National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, formally handed over party affairs to the new National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, in Abuja.
Addressing an enlarged meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) and other party officials, Turaki assured members of the party’s resilience, saying, “The PDP will never die. This party is bigger than any individual or group. Those who have chosen to dine with our opponents while still wearing our colours have been shown the way out. This is the beginning of a disciplined, united, and purposeful opposition that will rescue Nigeria in 2027.”
In his farewell remarks, Ambassador Damagum thanked the party for the opportunity to serve and pledged continued support for reforms under the new leadership.
In a significant move, the PDP’s NWC issued Certificates of Expulsion to members, including Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, for persistent anti-party activities. Acting under Article 59(3) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), the party had ratified these expulsions at its November 16, 2025 National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State. Others expelled include:
Samuel Anyanwu, former National Secretar,Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN, former Legal AdviserTuraki described the expulsions as “final and irrevocable” and outlined his priorities under the new leadership:Immediate healing and reconciliation among loyal membersStrict enforcement of party discipline,Rebuilding party structures across the 36 states and the FCT, Presenting a united front against the ruling APC
“The PDP is alive, strong, and marching to victory in 2027. No amount of money, blackmail, or intimidation will stop us,” Turaki affirmed, signaling a new chapter of discipline and unity in the party.
