Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), has urged the newly emerged factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Kabiru Turaki, to rebuild the party, correct its past mistakes, and reposition it as a stabilising force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Babangida gave the charge at his Hilltop residence in Minna when Turaki and selected members of the PDP National Working Committee paid him a courtesy visit. Their discussions focused on party renewal, national stability, and the need to strengthen political structures across the country.
The former military president commended the PDP leadership for identifying with the government and people of Niger State during what he described as one of their most difficult periods. He also reaffirmed the PDP’s strong national presence, recalling his earlier efforts to institutionalise a two-party system—an initiative resisted by the political class.
He advised Turaki to adopt tact, broad consultation, and inclusive leadership as he sets out to rebuild the party.
“You admitted the party has made mistakes and has begun correcting them. I urge you to use tact, seek people’s opinions and work towards building a peaceful, progressive party. You have the capacity to do it, and I wish you well,” he said.
To underscore the influence of party structures in Nigeria, Babangida narrated an encounter from his time as Head of State: a military administrator he appointed in Niger State once met a resident who insisted that his loyalty remained with President Shehu Shagari and the then-ruling NPN, unaware that a military regime had taken over. Babangida said the incident demonstrated how deeply parties shape community consciousness.
In his response, Turaki expressed appreciation for Babangida’s steady support and guidance. He said the PDP would continue to draw from the former leader’s experience and historical understanding of Nigeria’s political journey.
“We are committed to resetting this party, strengthening its organs, and restoring its winning spirit ahead of 2027,” Turaki said.
He added that the delegation had initially planned an appreciation visit to Babangida, but the recent abductions in Niger State prompted them to combine it with a condolence visit.