In a determined move to restore order and discipline within its ranks, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has constituted a 26-member disciplinary committee, with veteran politician Chief Tom Ikimi at the helm. This committee is part of a broader strategy by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to address longstanding issues that have weakened the party’s internal cohesion, particularly following the controversial 2023 Presidential primary.
The announcement was made by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, during a press briefing in Abuja. He emphasized that the creation of this committee is essential for the party’s stability and its ability to function effectively as a leading political entity in Nigeria.
According to Ologunagba, the disciplinary committee will be officially inaugurated on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, alongside the National Reconciliation Committee, which is headed by former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola. The inauguration is scheduled to take place at the National Executive Committee (NEC) Hall within the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja, underscoring the importance of these committees in the party’s strategy to regain its footing.
The Aftermath of the 2023 Presidential Primary
The formation of this disciplinary committee comes on the heels of the deep divisions that emerged within the PDP following its 2023 Presidential primary. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar won the primary with 371 votes, defeating then-Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, who garnered 237 votes out of a total of 767. This outcome sparked significant tension within the party, as Wike and a faction of five PDP governors, known as the G-5, openly opposed Atiku’s candidacy, campaigning against him in the lead-up to the general elections.
The internal conflict severely impacted the party’s unity, and many within the PDP view the formation of the Ikimi-led disciplinary committee as a necessary step to prevent such divisions from undermining the party’s future electoral prospects. The committee, which includes prominent figures such as former Kano State Governor Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, former National Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, and Chief Olabode George, is tasked with enforcing party discipline and ensuring that all members adhere to the principles and decisions of the party leadership.
The inclusion of Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, as the committee’s secretary is also notable. Jegede, who has previously served as the PDP’s governorship candidate in Ondo State, brings a wealth of legal expertise to the committee, which will be crucial in handling the complex disciplinary issues that the party faces.
A Dual Approach: Discipline and Reconciliation
In addition to the disciplinary committee, the PDP’s National Working Committee has also established a National Reconciliation Committee. This committee, chaired by Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, is tasked with healing the rifts within the party and fostering a spirit of unity among its members. The reconciliation efforts are seen as complementary to the disciplinary actions, as the party seeks to balance enforcement with efforts to bring estranged members back into the fold.
The National Reconciliation Committee is expected to engage with various factions within the party, including those who have felt marginalized or aggrieved by recent events. By addressing these concerns and working towards reconciliation, the PDP hopes to strengthen its internal structure and present a more united front in future elections.
The upcoming inauguration of these two committees marks a critical moment for the PDP. As the party prepares for the 2027 general elections, the success of these committees will be instrumental in determining its ability to navigate the complex political landscape of Nigeria. The leadership of Chief Tom Ikimi in the disciplinary committee and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola in the reconciliation committee reflects the party’s commitment to leveraging experienced and respected leaders to guide these crucial processes.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2027
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the PDP’s efforts to restore discipline and foster reconciliation are seen as pivotal to its electoral strategy. The party’s leadership is acutely aware that its success in future elections depends on its ability to present a cohesive and unified front. The disciplinary and reconciliation committees are therefore expected to play a central role in shaping the party’s internal dynamics over the coming years.
The PDP’s move to establish these committees also sends a clear message to its members and supporters that the party is serious about addressing its internal issues. By taking proactive steps to resolve conflicts and enforce discipline, the PDP aims to rebuild trust among its members and voters, thereby enhancing its chances of success in the 2027 elections.
As the inauguration date approaches, all eyes will be on the PDP to see how it navigates this critical period. The effectiveness of the Ikimi-led disciplinary committee and the Oyinlola-led reconciliation committee will undoubtedly shape the party’s future, determining whether it can overcome its recent challenges and emerge stronger in the years to come.
Source: Vanguard
