By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki is set to take centre stage in what political observers describe as a strategic move to stabilise the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections. This follows his appointment as chairman of a newly constituted seven-member committee tasked with preparing for the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and its crucial National Convention.
The PDP, grappling with internal divisions and the need to reposition itself as a credible opposition, announced that its NEC will meet on May 27, 2025, with the National Convention slated for August 2025. The decision was reached at an expanded session of the PDP Governors’ Forum held over the weekend.
Saraki’s selection is seen by many within the party as a move to rally both old and new blocs within the PDP toward unity.
“The party is at a crossroads. We need experience, calm leadership and bridge-builders like Dr. Saraki,” said a senior party chieftain who attended the meeting but declined to be named.
Other prominent members of the committee include Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang, and Enugu State Governor Peter Mba. Former governors Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) also made the list, adding depth and regional spread to the committee’s composition.
Speaking on the development, a source close to the PDP Governors’ Forum said, “This is more than just organising a convention; it’s about restoring trust and building a solid foundation going into 2027.”
The party leadership expressed confidence that the committee, under Saraki’s guidance, will ensure a smooth convention that will usher in a new era of cohesion and purpose.
“We are committed to internal democracy and inclusiveness. Nigerians are watching, and we cannot afford to get this wrong,” said one of the governors present at the meeting.
As the countdown begins, the convention is expected to be a turning point for the PDP, with many expecting it to define the party’s direction and leadership structure ahead of the next electoral cycle.