Nigeria’s former Head of State, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has issued a crucial charge to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He urged the party’s acting National Chairman, Kabiru Turaki, to embark on a genuine rebuilding effort. Babangida also stressed the importance of correcting past missteps, all in preparation for the upcoming 2027 general elections.

IBB delivered this counsel during a recent courtesy visit. Turaki, accompanied by selected members of the PDP National Working Committee, met with the former leader. The meeting took place at Babangida’s revered Hilltop residence in Minna, Niger State.

Discussions during the visit reportedly centred on vital issues. These included party renewal, ensuring national stability, and strengthening political structures across Nigeria.

Babangida also took the opportunity to commend the PDP leadership. He praised them for identifying with the government and people of Niger State. He referred to this period as “one of their most difficult times,” acknowledging recent challenges faced by the state.

Reaffirming the PDP’s significance, IBB described it as “the most structurally grounded political organisation in Nigeria.” He recounted his own past attempt to institutionalise a two-party system, an experiment he noted was met with resistance from the political class of that era.

IBB’s Counsel to Turaki and the PDP

The former military president offered specific guidance to Turaki. He urged the acting chairman to prioritise tact, broad consultation, and inclusive leadership. These qualities, IBB noted, are essential as Turaki begins the crucial task of repositioning the party.

“You earlier admitted that the party made mistakes,” IBB stated directly. “Machinery has already been set in motion to correct them.” He advised, “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.”

To underscore the enduring influence of political parties, Babangida shared a memorable anecdote. He recalled a military administrator he once appointed in Niger State. This administrator encountered a resident who insisted on loyalty to President Shehu Shagari and the then-ruling NPN. The resident was seemingly unaware that a military government was in power.

This episode, IBB explained, powerfully highlighted how deeply party structures are embedded within community consciousness.

PDP’s Commitment to Rebuilding for 2027

In his response, Kabiru Turaki extended gratitude to the former Head of State. He thanked IBB for his consistent guidance and wisdom. Turaki affirmed that the PDP would continue to draw from Babangida’s vast leadership experience. This includes his profound historical understanding of Nigeria’s political evolution.

“We are committed to resetting this party,” Turaki declared. “We aim to strengthen its organs and restore its winning spirit ahead of 2027.”

Turaki also clarified the nature of their visit. He explained that the delegation initially planned a special appreciation call. However, the recent abductions in Niger State made it imperative to combine the courtesy visit with a condolence message to the people of the state.