Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has urged Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and other key figures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to suspend the proposed national convention, describing it as “ill-timed and potentially divisive.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, Saraki cautioned that proceeding with the convention amid unresolved internal disagreements could deepen existing cracks within the party and undermine its prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He emphasized that unity, dialogue, and reconciliation should take precedence over political maneuvering, warning that a convention held under tension would not yield a credible or unifying leadership outcome.
“Our party must rise above factional interests and personal ambitions. The focus now should be on rebuilding trust, strengthening cohesion, and restoring public confidence in the PDP as a credible alternative,” Saraki stated.
The former Senate President advised the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to engage all stakeholders in meaningful consultations and conflict resolution before convening any major national gathering.
According to sources within the party, the planned convention was intended to address leadership restructuring and strategic repositioning. However, internal wrangling, particularly among some governors and regional blocs, has sparked calls for its postponement.
As of press time, Governor Makinde and members of the PDP Governors’ Forum were yet to issue an official response to Saraki’s appeal. However, indications suggest that high-level consultations are ongoing to prevent further escalation of the crisis within the party.