A chieftain of Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has warned that disciplinary action will be taken against members engaged in anti-party activities. His statement comes as the party’s leadership, under the Kabiru Turaki-led faction, pursues reconciliation following a recent court directive.
The PDP’s internal reconciliation efforts gained momentum after the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal advised the warring factions to settle their disputes out of court. Since the ruling on Monday, the Turaki-led National Working Committee has convened several meetings. Central to the discussions is the possibility of engaging with the rival faction aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Party sources also indicate that leaders are seriously considering a recent call from former Senate President Bukola Saraki for an end to prolonged litigation. Saraki argued that the party must resolve its crises promptly to comply with the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) timelines and retain a viable chance of fielding candidates for the 2027 general elections.
During an interview on Arise News’ “News Day” programme, Chief George was directly asked about consequences for members who blatantly violate party rules. He affirmed that punishment would be enforced. “You are either straight or you are awkward,” George stated, adding that a steadfast commitment to principles and faith is paramount. He suggested that trials and tribulations, which he described as a “spiritual desert,” serve to test and strengthen resolve, referencing his own extensive political experience.
Analysts view the PDP’s current push for internal harmony as critical to its electoral strategy. The party’s ability to present a united front ahead of the 2027 elections hinges on resolving factional disputes before INEC’s deadline for candidate nominations. The leadership’s dual approach—engaging in dialogue while signaling a zero-tolerance stance on indiscipline—aims to consolidate the party structure. The coming weeks will test whether these reconciliation attempts succeed in bridging the divide between the Turaki and Wike factions and restoring cohesion ahead of Nigeria’s next electoral cycle.
