PDP Names Tanimu Turaki as Consensus Chairman in Democratic Shift

A significant decision was made within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as it appointed former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as the party’s consensus candidate for the position of national chairman. Inna Ciroma, a member of the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC), described this move as a reflection of democratic principles, representing the collective will of the majority among Northern stakeholders.

During an interview with ARISE News on Thursday, Ciroma elaborated on the process leading to Turaki’s selection. She noted that the decision aligns with the PDP’s established rotation principle, which designates leadership positions based on geographic zones. “PDP zones positions and rotates them every four years between the North and the South. Since the zoning committee agreed that the president should come from the South, the chairman must come from the North,” she stated.

The PDP’s internal discussions included micro-zoning among the Northern subregions, which led to an agreement that positions previously allocated to North Central would shift to North West, North West to North East, and North East to North Central. Ciroma highlighted that while there were discussions regarding the acting chairmanship of Damagum from North East, the consensus emerged that the North West had yet to produce a PDP national chairman, paving the way for Turaki’s endorsement.

While acknowledging that not all party members may be satisfied with the decision, Ciroma emphasized that the process was democratic. “Others who are unhappy have the right to complain, but the majority decision stands,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of collective agreement within the party.

Addressing speculation about a potential link between Turaki’s endorsement and the 2027 presidential ambitions of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Ciroma dismissed such notions. She asserted that the PDP’s priority is to rebuild and strengthen the party, stating, “As far as I’m concerned, PDP has serious challenges, and we need a chairman who can provide a strong platform for whoever becomes our presidential candidate.”

Ciroma praised Turaki’s experience and leadership qualities, describing him as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria who is humble and democratic. “We need a chairman who cannot be manipulated, who can stand for the party and for Nigeria,” she added, pointing to Turaki’s ability to listen and consider the needs of the country.

In light of ongoing concerns regarding internal disputes and membership loss within the PDP, Ciroma expressed confidence in the party’s resilience. “Honestly, I’m not worried about governors leaving. In 2015, PDP had more governors and still lost the election. Elections now depend on Nigerians, not governors,” she stated firmly. She reassured party members that every vote counts, emphasizing, “Your vote is your right and your rescue from the present situation.”

Looking ahead, Ciroma expressed optimism about the PDP’s future, stating that it would continue to attract former members and grow stronger in preparation for the 2027 elections. “PDP has never changed its name or merged with any party. We are still here, united and wiser. We are committed to ensuring internal democracy because that is what sustains a political party. The people’s voice must remain the rule of the party,” she concluded.

Ciroma’s confidence in Turaki’s leadership signals a hopeful trajectory for the PDP as it seeks to stabilize and reaffirm its role as Nigeria’s primary opposition party.