Nigeria’s former Head of State, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has charged the new factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Turaki, to embark on a genuine rebuilding of the party and correct past missteps ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Babangida gave the charge when Turaki and selected members of the PDP National Working Committee paid him a courtesy visit at his Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State.
The meeting was said to have centred on party renewal, national stability and the strengthening of political structures across the country.
IBB applauded 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 emphasised that the PDP remained “the most structurally grounded political organisation in Nigeria,” recalling his own attempt to institutionalise a two-party system, an experiment he said was resisted by the political class at the time.
The former military president urged Turaki to prioritise tact, broad consultation and inclusive leadership as he begins repositioning the party.
“While you spoke earlier, you admitted that the party made mistakes and has already set machinery in motion to correct them. I urge you to use tact, seek people’s opinions, and work towards building a peaceful and progressive party. You have the capacity to do it, and I wish you well,” he said.
To illustrate the enduring influence of political parties, Babangida narrated how a military administrator he once appointed in Niger State met a resident who insisted his loyalty remained with President Shehu Shagari and the then-ruling NPN, unaware that a military government was in power.
He said the episode highlighted how deeply party structures are embedded in community consciousness.
Responding, Turaki thanked the former Head of State for his consistent guidance, saying the PDP would continue to draw from his leadership experience and historical understanding of Nigeria’s political evolution.
“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 a special appreciation visit, but the recent abductions in Niger State made it necessary to combine the courtesy call with a condolence visit.
