The Peoples Democratic Party has rejected a call by former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, to dissolve its new National Working Committee and appoint a caretaker leadership. The party argues that Lamido’s proposal contradicts its constitution and cannot be implemented while ongoing court cases remain unresolved.

Lamido had issued a 10-day ultimatum to the party’s leadership to resolve its internal crisis, which arose after the national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, in mid-November. He dragged the PDP to court over the convention and is now seeking the dissolution of the NWC and the formation of a national caretaker committee.

However, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Ini Ememobong, stated that Lamido’s position is against the current legal reality. Several factions have secured different court judgments, which are now before the Court of Appeal. Ememobong explained that the PDP constitution does not provide for a national caretaker committee, and the party cannot create one while the appellate court is handling appeals.

Ememobong noted that Lamido initially chose to take his grievances to court instead of using the party’s internal conflict-resolution channels. He added that if Lamido had opted for internal engagement earlier, the party might have settled the matter without litigation.

The PDP has made efforts to reconcile with aggrieved leaders, including Lamido. Ememobong stated that party stakeholders have attempted to reach out to him and others, but reconciliation requires willingness from all sides. The party’s governors, national chairman, and NWC members have been holding meetings with aggrieved members across the country to unify the party.

The PDP’s rejection of Lamido’s proposal highlights the ongoing internal crisis within the party. The party’s ability to resolve its internal conflicts will be crucial in the lead-up to future elections. With the Court of Appeal set to hear the pending appeals, the PDP’s leadership and structure will remain uncertain until the legal issues are resolved.