On Saturday, leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo. They met him at his residence in Ogun State.
The party’s factional National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, led the delegation. Prominent figures were present. These included Senator Adolphus Wabara, the Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman. Former Governors Jonah Jang (Plateau) and Muazu Babangida Aliyu (Niger) also attended. Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, the PDP candidate in Ekiti State, joined them. Other members of the National Working Committee joined as well. Key party leaders from across Nigeria were also part of the entourage.
Seeking Guidance for the Road Ahead
After a closed-door meeting, Turaki spoke to reporters. He stated their purpose was to learn from Obasanjo’s vast experience. They also sought his blessings and support. This would help move the PDP forward.
Turaki further revealed their aim. They want Obasanjo’s backing to unseat the All Progressives Congress (APC). This is for the 2027 general elections.
He emphasized their presence in Abeokuta. It was to formally introduce the new leadership. They also sought Obasanjo’s fatherly blessings.
Turaki explained that the new leadership felt it crucial to visit Obasanjo. They aimed to draw from his wisdom. They also sought his support for the administration’s success.
He acknowledged the challenge ahead. Removing the APC government in 2027 would be tough. Turaki cited the APC’s “incompetence and maladministration.” Yet, he added that their frank discussion with Obasanjo provided inspiration. It convinced them that the task is achievable.
“We are the newly elected PDP leadership,” Turaki stated. “We emerged from our recent congress in Ibadan.” He added, “We came to introduce ourselves to our father, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.” Obasanjo served as president under the PDP.
Turaki listed key members of the delegation. “Former Senate President and BOT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, is with us,” he said. “Our National Secretary, Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja, former deputy governor of Oyo State, also joined.” He also named former Governors Alhaji Muazu Babangida Aliyu (Niger) and Senator Jonah Jang (Plateau). Many other leaders were part of the group.
He explained another reason for the visit. “We came to thank the former president,” Turaki affirmed. They appreciated his vision. His contributions strengthened Nigeria’s democracy and good governance. He also helped build strong institutions. These benefits are still evident today.
Turaki emphasized seeking guidance. “We came to draw inspiration from him,” he noted. “He is an oracle.” They sought guidance, advice, and critical support. “Our assignment is huge,” he explained. “To succeed, we need those with prerequisite experience, like Chief Obasanjo.”
He quoted a proverb: ‘A woman who started cooking before you must definitely have more broken pots.’ Turaki concluded, “We visited our father in Abeokuta, Ogun State. We spoke with Baba, and he spoke with us. We feel greatly enriched.”
Turaki acknowledged the difficulty of their mission. “The task ahead is not easy,” he admitted. However, Obasanjo’s inspiration and guidance changed their outlook. “We are now more than ready,” he declared. “We will take PDP back to power in 2027.”
About the Author
