Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has called on the newly emerged factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Turaki, to lead a thorough rebuilding of the party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Babangida delivered the charge when Turaki, accompanied by selected members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), visited his Hilltop residence in Minna, the Niger State capital. Their discussions reportedly centred on party renewal, national stability, and the strengthening of political structures nationwide.
The former military president commended the delegation for identifying with the government and people of Niger State during what he described as one of their most challenging moments. He reaffirmed the PDP’s strong national presence, noting that the party remains the most structurally grounded political organisation in Nigeria.
Reflecting on his own experience in governance, Babangida recalled his attempt to establish a two-party system during his time in power, which he said was resisted by the political class. He emphasised that political parties often take deep root within communities, shaping their perspectives and loyalties over time.
To illustrate this point, he narrated an encounter involving a military administrator he once appointed in Niger State. The administrator reportedly met a resident who was unaware that the military had taken over the government and insisted that his loyalty remained with President Shehu Shagari and the then-ruling National Party of Nigeria (NPN). Babangida said the episode demonstrated how firmly party loyalties can embed themselves in public consciousness.
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He urged Turaki to approach rebuilding the PDP with tact, broad consultation, and inclusive leadership.
“You admitted earlier that the party made mistakes and has already set machinery in motion to correct them. I urge you to use tact, seek people’s opinions, and work towards building a peaceful and progressive party. You have the capacity to do it, and I wish you well,” he added.
In his response, Turaki expressed appreciation for Babangida’s consistent support and guidance, stressing that the PDP would continue to draw from his wealth of experience and deep understanding of Nigeria’s political evolution.
“We are committed to resetting this party, strengthening its organs and restoring its winning spirit ahead of 2027,” he said.
Turaki also revealed that the delegation had initially planned a special appreciation visit. Still, recent abductions in Niger State made it necessary to combine the courtesy call with a condolence visit.
