Senator Ahmed Makarfi, former Kaduna State Governor, has officially resigned. He stepped down as Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT). His decision stems from the party’s long-held zoning principles. A new National Chairman from his geopolitical zone also emerged.

This resignation follows Kabiru Turaki’s election. Turaki is the new PDP National Chairman. He was formerly the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs. His election happened at the party’s national convention in Ibadan last weekend.

Makarfi Cites Zoning Principles

Makarfi’s resignation letter is dated November 17, 2025. It addressed BoT Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara. Makarfi clearly stated his decision’s basis. It is a long-standing belief in fairness and balance. This applies to the party’s leadership structure.

Makarfi wrote: “The principal reason for my resignation then and now was, and is still, my belief that the national chairman of the party and the secretary should not come from the same geopolitical zone.”

He further added: “Now that a chairman has emerged from the North West, where I come from, it is necessary to give him full space to do the needful.”

Stepping aside, he believes, removes any perception of imbalance. This action, he stated, will promote internal harmony within the PDP. Remaining in office with a National Chairman from his North-West zone would contradict PDP’s zoning principles.

Previous Attempt to Step Down

This November resignation was not his initial attempt to leave the position. He had previously posted a resignation message. This was on the PDP BoT WhatsApp platform two months prior. However, he was persuaded to stay.

Makarfi’s letter recalled: “You may recall that about two months ago, I had resigned as Secretary of the Board and posted same on the Board’s WhatsApp platform.”

Chairman Wabara personally intervened. He requested Makarfi to stay on. This was until after the national convention concluded. Makarfi quoted Wabara: “Mr. Chairman, you may recall that you personally urged me to stay on until after a convention that produced a chairman.”

Makarfi emphasized his resignation is not due to personal grievances. Instead, it reflects his deep commitment to equity within the party.

Gratitude and Political Career

His formal statement declared: “Accordingly, I hereby formally resign as Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party with effect from today, November 17th, 2025.”

The former governor expressed profound gratitude. He thanked the BoT Chairman and other members. He appreciated their cooperation throughout his tenure. He wrote: “I truly appreciate the very respectful relationship between us during my period as Secretary.” Makarfi added: “I also appreciate all Board members for their support and good relationship that prevailed during my period as Secretary.”

Senator Makarfi boasts a rich political career. He governed Kaduna State from 1999 to 2007. He also served as a respected senator. Within the PDP, he held several key roles. Notably, he was Acting National Chairman during the 2016-2017 leadership crisis.