Makinde group urges Wike-backed PDP faction to return to mainstream leadership
A political support group, the Seyi Makinde Disciples, has urged members of a factional caretaker committee backed by Minister Nyesom Wike to return to the mainstream leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The convener of the group, Laja Adeoye, made the appeal on Thursday in Lagos during an interview, saying the party remained open to reconciliation despite the lingering leadership crisis.
Adeoye called on members of the caretaker committee led by Mohammed Abdurahman and Senator Samuel Nwanyanwu to embrace peace and reintegrate into the party structure recognised by the PDP constitution.
He expressed optimism that the internal disputes within the party would soon be resolved.
“We are hopeful that all the issues within the party will soon be put behind us. The PDP remains a big family with room for everyone.
“The National Caretaker Committee is not recognised by the law or the party’s constitution, and that position has been clearly stated,” he said.
Adeoye added that members aligned with the Wike camp still had the opportunity to return to the party’s mainstream leadership.
“The Wike camp now has the opportunity to return home. The PDP is opening its doors to suspended national officers willing to reintegrate.
“If they return with remorse and a willingness to work with others, reconciliation will succeed and the party will move forward,” he said.
According to him, the recent pronouncement by the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan had encouraged party leaders to intensify reconciliation efforts.
He said the court urged all parties involved in the dispute to accommodate one another, describing the development as a positive signal for the party.
Adeoye noted that the court’s position also indirectly set aside actions taken by some suspended members of the party’s National Working Committee, including the formation of the caretaker committee.
He said the development should be seen as an opportunity for unity rather than a source of further division within the party.
Adeoye added that unity among party leaders, including Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, would help rebuild the PDP ahead of future elections.
He said the party remained committed to strengthening the opposition and mobilising Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Lagos politics, Adeoye said the PDP was intensifying efforts to reclaim political power in the state and deliver people-oriented governance.
He said the party would provide transparent leadership and promote development across Lagos State if given the opportunity by voters.
He expressed confidence that with unity among its leaders and support from the electorate, the PDP could reposition itself and mount a strong challenge in future elections.
On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld an earlier ruling by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
