Fresh reports indicate that elected governors and National Assembly members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are exerting pressure on former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to assume the role of national chairman. This development comes after a Benue High Court removed Dr. Iyorchia Ayu from the position, leaving Ambassador Illya Umar Damagun as the acting national chairman.
The PDP is reportedly preparing for a comprehensive reorganization in the event that the presidential election tribunal does not rule in favor of their candidate, Atiku Abubakar. Sources within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) revealed that individuals have been visiting Saraki’s residences in Maitama, Abuja, and Ikoyi, Lagos, under the guise of discussing the future of the opposition party. They express concerns that the party may struggle under a Tinubu presidency unless it is led by a unifying figure capable of rallying all members and building a robust party structure.
According to NWC members, the party’s current state resembles a dormant graveyard, lacking any significant activity. They believe that the only viable solution is a reorganization with someone like Saraki at the helm. Saraki is viewed as a natural unifier, enjoying broad acceptance and goodwill among various groups within the party, including the G-5 Group, Atiku’s supporters, non-aligned members, and NWC colleagues. His successful handling of party reconciliation efforts in 2021, following the 2019 presidential election loss, has further bolstered his credentials.
Despite the persistent pressure, sources close to Saraki state that he insists on deferring discussions about the next executive until the litigation over the presidential election result concludes. He has also cautioned against triggering a fresh crisis by prematurely terminating the tenure of the current NWC members. Instead, Saraki prefers to work behind the scenes and support the party informally. However, those close to him within the party remain unwavering in their efforts to convince him to lead and help rebuild the PDP.
Associates of Saraki from the business world are reportedly being enlisted in the push to persuade him. However, some PDP chieftains declined to comment on the matter, stating that it is not the appropriate time for such discussions due to the ongoing tribunal proceedings.
