Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a past presidential aspirant and prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), believes the party’s ongoing leadership turmoil can be addressed in just one week by opting for political negotiations instead of drawn-out court cases.
He shared this view during a discussion with PDP National Chairman Ambassador Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as part of broader efforts to find a non-litigious way to end the internal conflict.
As one of the PDP’s founding conveners in 1998 and its inaugural elected Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Hashim argued that a political approach would better ensure the party’s longevity and support Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system.
He pointed out that the PDP’s constitution already provides the necessary powers to handle the situation without legal intervention. “The National Executive Committee (NEC) has plenty of valid members who can call a meeting and sort this out in a week,” Hashim remarked.
Referencing Sections 3(1) and 3(4) of the PDP Constitution, which allow two-thirds of NEC members to initiate a gathering, he noted that most NEC members were chosen prior to the controversial Ibadan convention, giving them undeniable authority.
Hashim added that while certain National Working Committee (NWC) members’ terms ended on December 8, the original pre-Ibadan NEC retains the right to step in and make fixes for the party’s benefit.
“All it takes is boldness and accountability,” he emphasized.
“NEC members need to look beyond their factions and act for history, the party, and the country.”
He cautioned that ongoing infighting might diminish the PDP’s role as an effective opposition, potentially destabilizing Nigeria’s democratic equilibrium.
“This is fixable, and we must act on it,” he urged.
In reply, PDP National Chairman Ambassador Tanimu Turaki (SAN) expressed appreciation for Hashim’s initiative and dedication to unity. He confirmed that his administration is willing to pursue reconciliation, provided it doesn’t jeopardize the party’s cohesion, steadiness, or future.
The session took place at Turaki’s home in Asokoro, Abuja, with the Deputy National Chairman and National Youth Leader also present.
