After Appeal Court Shocker, Saraki Sends Strong Message to PDP Leaders

By UCHECHI OKPORIE

‎ ‎Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has urged leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to urgently organise a new national convention following a recent Court of Appeal ruling that nullified the party’s disputed convention held in Ibadan.

‎ ‎In a statement shared on his X account and signed by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki called on party stakeholders to immediately suspend ongoing legal battles and work towards restoring unity within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

‎ ‎The appeal comes after the Court of Appeal invalidated the outcome of the controversial convention conducted in Ibadan last year, a decision that has created fresh uncertainty about the legitimacy of the PDP’s current leadership structure.

‎ ‎Reacting to the judgment, Saraki cautioned that prolonged litigation could hinder the party’s ability to comply with the revised timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly concerning the nomination of candidates for upcoming elections.

‎ ‎He warned that waiting for a possible Supreme Court verdict could leave the party with insufficient time to complete its internal processes before electoral deadlines.

‎ ‎According to Saraki, the unresolved questions surrounding the party’s leadership structure may also cast doubt on the validity of candidacies presented under the PDP platform.

‎ ‎He stressed that a political party’s foremost duty is to provide a credible and legally sound platform for members seeking elective office, noting that continued internal strife threatens that objective.

‎ ‎He called on party leaders to set aside personal interests and prioritise the party’s collective future.

‎ ‎ Saraki recalled that some stakeholders had previously cautioned against proceeding with the Ibadan convention amid unresolved disputes, warning that such action could trigger legal complications.

‎ ‎While acknowledging that the legal contest may have strained relationships within the party, Saraki emphasised that effective leadership demands placing institutional stability above individual ambitions. ‎

‎He further warned that sustained court battles could undermine the aspirations of thousands of PDP members preparing to contest positions ranging from state legislative seats to the presidency.

‎ ‎To resolve the crisis, Saraki advocated dialogue among all factions and the organisation of an inclusive national convention that aligns with INEC guidelines.

‎ ‎He maintained that compromise and unity are essential to repositioning the PDP and strengthening its readiness for the next electoral cycle.

‎ ‎The Ibadan convention has continued to fuel internal divisions within the party, with several stakeholders challenging its legitimacy in court, deepening concerns about the PDP’s cohesion and preparedness for future elections.