PDP Leaders Outline Qualities Expected of Next National Chairman Ahead of Ibadan Convention

As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gears up for its national convention scheduled for November in Ibadan, Oyo State, members of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) have shared their expectations for the next national chairman, stressing the importance of unity, reconciliation, and inclusive leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In separate interviews with The PUNCH, PDP NEC members, including a former national secretary, Ibrahim Tsauri, and the Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, expressed optimism that the incoming national chairman and the National Working Committee (NWC) would revitalise the party’s structure and restore its strength before the polls.

At its 102nd NEC meeting held on August 25 in Abuja, the PDP resolved to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South while reserving the chairmanship slot for the North. Following this, northern leaders met over the weekend and further micro-zoned the position to the North-West.

Last week, Northern PDP governors led by Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, alongside other stakeholders, endorsed former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as the consensus candidate for national chairman. However, some party members loyal to former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, and led by the National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, expressed displeasure, claiming they were not consulted. Meanwhile, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is reportedly backing his ally and former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, for the top position.

Speaking on the party’s expectations, Tsauri said the forthcoming convention should mark the beginning of a new era of credible and collective leadership built on integrity and discipline.

He stated, “We are advocating for credible leaders with capacity and integrity who are genuinely committed to the PDP’s ideals. The next national chairman must uphold party supremacy, enforce discipline, and ensure strict adherence to the constitution to promote fairness and unity within the ranks.”

Tsauri added that such leadership would rebuild the party’s credibility, strengthen internal democracy, and encourage both old and new members to rally around the PDP as Nigeria’s foremost national party.

On his part, Osadolor urged the incoming NWC to learn from past experiences, engage stakeholders across all levels, and prioritise reconciliation and inclusivity.

He said, “The next chairman must listen, learn, and engage all members. Leadership should not be about personal ambition but a call to reposition the PDP for success. Harmonisation, reconciliation, and selfless service must define the new leadership.”

Both leaders expressed confidence that with the right leadership, the PDP would bounce back stronger and more united ahead of 2027.