PDP factions open peace talks as Makinde, Wike camps seek truce ahead of 2027

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it is stepping back from the brink of a major internal crisis, as rival camps loyal to Seyi Makinde and Nyesom Wike have opened peace talks ahead of the 2027 general elections.

After months of escalating tensions marked by court battles, public exchanges, and political manoeuvres, the party said both factions are now opting for dialogue in a bid to preserve unity.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, factional PDP National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki said the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), aligned with the Makinde camp, had initiated steps to de-escalate the crisis following intervention by the Board of Trustees led by Adolphus Wabara.

“In obedience to the advisory of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan, the Board of Trustees constituted a high-powered committee to interface with our estranged party members,” Turaki said.

As part of confidence-building measures, the NWC postponed key meetings of the National Executive Committee and National Caucus and moderated its public communications. However, the party noted that the gesture was initially not reciprocated, citing continued “derogatory statements” from opposing quarters.

Despite this, Turaki confirmed a breakthrough.

“I can unequivocally confirm that, as of today, leaders on both sides have broken the ice and are exploring various pathways towards a lasting resolution,” he said.

He urged party supporters nationwide to exercise restraint, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could derail the fragile peace process.

Although reconciliation talks are ongoing, legal battles remain active across multiple courts. Turaki, however, signalled the party’s readiness to withdraw all cases once a political settlement is reached.

“As soon as we reach agreeable terms, we will willingly withdraw all cases… to give peace a chance,” he added.

He reassured aspirants that the PDP would field candidates in all elective positions, despite the internal turmoil.

Turaki also acknowledged that compromise would be necessary to sustain unity, insisting that the party is determined to survive the crisis.

“We are willing to bend as far as our necks and backs allow… PDP will not die,” he said.

In a show of internal alignment, the NWC passed a vote of confidence on Governors Makinde and Bala Mohammed, commending their roles during the crisis.

The party further expressed appreciation to members and supporters, noting that grassroots engagement and online registration have remained steady despite recent challenges.

With dialogue now underway, attention shifts to whether the ongoing talks will produce a lasting truce or if divisions will resurface as the countdown to the 2027 elections intensifies.