Amid the ongoing turmoil within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), a group of women from the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) has taken decisive action to prevent the collapse of Nigeria’s main opposition party. The internal crisis, which has worsened since the 2023 general elections, prompted these women leaders to step forward with a plan to stabilize the party and address the growing divisions.
On Tuesday, they held an urgent closed-door meeting with Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, lasting over 90 minutes. Prominent members in attendance included Hajia Inna Ciroma, former Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Zainab Maina, former Minister of Women Affairs, and other significant figures like Hauwa Musa Kida, Hajia Maryam Dikko, and Lawretta Mallam.
The meeting was convened to review the party’s situation, discuss the ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis, and formulate a strategic path forward. As trusted members of the BoT, regarded as the party’s conscience, the women emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent further fragmentation. They stressed that their intervention was motivated solely by the desire to preserve the PDP, not personal agendas.
To facilitate the reconciliation process, the women established a dedicated team led by Hajia Inna Ciroma. This team will travel across the country, engaging with PDP governors, stakeholders, and members to mediate conflicts, restore party unity, and rebuild the party’s structure.
Hajia Inna Ciroma shared with Vanguard, “We are deeply concerned about the party’s crisis. As mothers and leaders, we felt compelled to act. This is not about individuals; it’s about the survival of the PDP. I will lead a team to engage party leaders nationwide and seek lasting solutions. Nigerians are waiting for the PDP. The party must remain democratic and strong for democracy to thrive.”
The PDP is facing one of its most challenging times since its inception in 1998. Recent defections, including former Vice Presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the entire PDP structure in Delta State to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), have weakened the opposition significantly. With the 2027 general elections fast approaching, the BoT women are determined to lead efforts to restore trust in the PDP and ensure its survival.
