1 month ago
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The Peoples Democratic Party’s National Reconciliation Committee, led by former Governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, visited Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Monday to address internal conflicts that have caused divisions within the party.
The committee, which met with representatives at the state secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, formally conveyed its mission to resolve the disputes threatening the unity of the party.
The state’s Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, received the committee on behalf of Governor Makinde and emphasised the critical nature of their task.
Lawal stated, “The success of this committee will shape the future of the PDP in Nigeria—whether we progress, stagnate, or decline further.”
He urged all party stakeholders to cooperate with the committee to strengthen the party’s position nationally.
Reflecting on the party’s history, Lawal said, “The PDP used to be a formidable force, controlling 28 states between 1998 and 2015. However, we are now struggling with just 12 states. To win future elections, we must set aside tribal and religious sentiments and embrace unity founded on principles.”
He expressed concerns about the party’s recent losses in states like Edo and the upcoming challenge in Ondo State.
“If we remain divided, it will be difficult to confront and win elections. But with your efforts, we have a chance to reclaim Ondo State for the PDP.”
In his remarks, Oyinlola attributed the internal rifts within the PDP to a variety of factors, including conflicting personal interests, political ambitions, and issues of party supremacy.
“The committee aims to find a lasting solution to the challenges faced by the party through dialogue and negotiation, and to ensure that all stakeholders have a sense of inclusivity.
“We have taken a very deep and hard look as to why our party, the PDP is where it is today. If you recalled, at the beginning of this democratic system, that’s 1998,1999, PDP had under its control, 28 states out of 36 but today, we’re left with 12.
“The retrogression is alarming and nobody is happy about it, and that’s why this committee has been constituted to dig deep and see what has been responsible for the this retrogression.
“In a nutshell, that’s why we’re here.”
He appealed to aggrieved members to set aside their grievances and participate in genuine reconciliation efforts.
“We must forget our differences and create room for everyone. Let’s build a stronger, united party,” he urged.
The meeting was attended by prominent party members, including former Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo (National Secretary of the Committee), PDP Board of Trustees member, Mutiat Ladoja, former Minister of State for FCT, Jumoke Akinjide, Segun Sowumi, and Eddy Olafeso, among others.
