Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido has called for the immediate dissolution of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)’s Ibadan convention, which produced Kabiru Tanimu Turaki as the party’s National Chairman. Speaking in Kano on November 27, 2025, Lamido argued that the convention was illegitimate, as the tenure of Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu had not yet expired.

Lamido made the demand while addressing hundreds of his political followers, including former commissioners, local government chairmen, and appointees from his administration. He insisted that Damagun and Anyanwu remain valid officeholders until December 8, 2025, and warned that allowing the party to drift without clear leadership would endanger its future. He proposed the establishment of a caretaker committee to steer the PDP toward its next primaries.

In his remarks, Lamido urged reconciliation among party members, emphasizing forgiveness and unity. “We are in the same party, so let’s all forgive each other and settle these issues because of our party – the PDP,” he said. He stressed that his recent court actions were not aimed at personal control but at preserving the party’s legacy and protecting his rights, which he claimed had been violated. He lamented that “outsiders have captured the PDP, pushing aside its original owners,” a statement interpreted as criticism of newer factions within the party.

The controversy reflects ongoing internal crises within the PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party. While some leaders, including former Governor Achike Udenwa and Rep. Ugochinyere, have backed the Ibadan convention, others align with Lamido’s position. The Ex-Political Appointees Forum, led by Babanbi Ibrahim, condemned the leadership’s handling of Lamido’s candidacy, arguing that he was unfairly denied the chance to contest the chairmanship.

Analysts warn that the dispute could weaken the PDP ahead of future elections. Internal divisions have long plagued the party, and failure to resolve them could undermine its ability to challenge the APC. Lamido’s call for a caretaker committee is seen as an attempt to restore order, but whether the party leadership will heed his demand remains uncertain.

The development also highlights the tension between founding members and newer entrants. Lamido, a two-term governor and PDP stalwart, represents the old guard, while Turaki’s emergence reflects shifting dynamics. The outcome of this struggle will shape the party’s trajectory as it prepares for upcoming primaries and the 2027 elections.

For now, the PDP faces a critical test of unity. Lamido’s demand underscores the urgency of reconciliation, but the path forward will depend on whether leaders can balance competing interests and reaffirm the party’s identity. As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves, the PDP’s ability to resolve internal disputes will determine its relevance in the years ahead.