The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has elected Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as its new National Chairman and Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja as National Secretary during its elective national convention at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The event, attended by 2,725 delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is being hailed as a pivotal step toward party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The convention began on November 15 and continued into the early hours of November 16, proceeding smoothly with high levels of organization and enthusiasm among party members.
Senator Ben Obi, who oversaw the electoral process, guided delegates through a transparent and credible voting procedure, bolstering the PDP’s commitment to internal democracy.
Dr. Turaki’s election was nearly unanimous after his main rival, Senator Yakubu Lado, withdrew from the contest, solidifying Turaki’s position as the consensus candidate for the party’s highest office.
Supporters celebrated the result as a vital chance for the PDP to regroup, restructure, and mount a strong challenge against the ruling party in 2027.
Prior to the elections, the convention expelled several prominent members for anti-party activities, including FCT Minister and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike; former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose; and former National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
Also expelled were former National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN); Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; George Turner; and Hon. Umar Bature.
Chief Olabode George, former PDP Deputy Chairman (South), moved the expulsion motion, stating that the individuals had engaged in actions intended to undermine the party.
Senator Ben Obi, Secretary of the National Convention Organising Committee, proposed and secured approval for the event to proceed as an elective convention, with the motion seconded by Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN).
Governor Seyi Makinde moved for the ratification of state executive committees formed through compliant congresses monitored by INEC and security agencies, excluding Imo, Abia, Enugu, and Rivers states. The motion was seconded by Daniel Obiechina Okechukwu.
The convention further approved the dissolution of the existing National Working Committee (NWC) and amendments to portions of the party’s constitution.
