PDP Enters New Era as Acting Chairman Unveils Reform Agenda at BoT Inauguration
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has embarked on a transformative journey under new leadership, with Acting National Chairman Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammad announcing sweeping reforms during the inauguration of a newly constituted Board of Trustees (BoT) in Abuja.
During Friday’s ceremony, Muhammad addressed the party’s recent turmoil head-on, acknowledging the leadership crisis that emerged following the suspension of former BoT chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara by PDP’s Abia State chapter over alleged anti-party activities.
The Acting Chairman highlighted how the party’s previous leadership, including suspended National Chairman Ambassador Umar Damagum, had deviated from constitutional principles, leading to what he termed “deep internal disillusionment.” Muhammad criticized the former administration’s tendency to prioritize personal loyalties over established party rules and their disregard for valid court judgments.
In a significant development, Muhammad welcomed the Federal High Court’s recent judgment that enabled the BoT’s reconstitution, framing it as an opportunity for renewal rather than a setback. He particularly commended three senior party members who initiated the legal action, quoting their motivation as: “We acted not to destroy, but to redeem; not to divide, but to heal.”
The Acting Chairman traced the party’s challenges to a pivotal moment in 2015 when the PDP abandoned its zoning principle, describing this as the beginning of a decline that continues to impact the party. “It began when we allowed ambition to override equity, and when we ignored the cries of reason from within our own ranks,” he explained.
Looking forward, Muhammad outlined a comprehensive reform agenda focused on transparency, constitutional adherence, and restored public trust. He emphasized that the newly inaugurated BoT members carry a “sacred trust” rather than merely receiving a reward for loyalty, charging them to serve as the party’s moral compass.
The leadership transition marks a critical juncture for the PDP, with Muhammad insisting that the party can no longer justify internal irregularities under the guise of “party autonomy.” His closing remarks called for unity and principled leadership, stating, “Let history record that when the PDP stood at the edge of the precipice, men and women of goodwill rose to pull it back.”
As Nigeria’s main opposition party navigates this period of transformation, the success of these reforms could significantly impact the country’s political landscape heading into future electoral cycles.
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