Former Head of State General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has called on the factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Kabiru Turaki, to focus on rebuilding the party and restoring its place as a stabilising force ahead of the 2027 general elections. He delivered this charge when Turaki and key members of the PDP National Working Committee visited him at his Hilltop residence in Minna.
The meeting centred on party renewal, national stability and the need to strengthen political structures across the country. Babangida commended the delegation for identifying with Niger State during what he described as one of its most challenging periods. He noted that the PDP remained the most structurally rooted political organisation in Nigeria, recalling his earlier attempt to build a two-party system, which he said was resisted by the political class at the time.
Babangida advised Turaki to lead with tact and broad consultation while making deliberate efforts to correct past mistakes within the party. He stressed that inclusive leadership would be essential as the PDP works to regain its footing before the next general election. To highlight the lasting influence of political parties in Nigeria, he shared a story about a former military administrator in Niger State who met a resident unaware that the military was in power and who remained loyal to President Shehu Shagari and the then-ruling NPN. The anecdote, he said, reflected how deeply party identity shapes local communities.
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In his response, Turaki expressed gratitude for Babangida’s continued guidance and said the party would draw from his experience as it moves to strengthen its organs and rebuild its winning structure. He said the delegation had planned a visit of appreciation but chose to combine it with a condolence visit following recent abductions in Niger State. Turaki reaffirmed the party’s commitment to resetting its outlook and preparing for a strong return in 2027.
