Turaki takes charge, declares PDP “alive and unstoppable” as Damagum hands over

• Party issues expulsion certificates to Wike, others

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday witnessed a major leadership transition in Abuja as former Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, formally handed over the affairs of the party to the newly elected National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN.

Speaking during an enlarged meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) and other senior party officials, Turaki delivered a forceful message of renewal and discipline, declaring:
“The PDP will never die. This party is bigger than any individual or group of individuals. Those who have chosen to dine with our opponents while still wearing our colours have been shown the way out. This is the beginning of a disciplined, united, and purposeful opposition that will rescue Nigeria in 2027.”

In his remarks, Damagum thanked the party for the opportunity to serve and pledged continued cooperation with the new leadership to advance ongoing reforms.

Meanwhile, the NWC also issued Certificates of Expulsion to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, and other members found guilty of persistent anti-party activities. The action follows the ratification of their expulsion at the November 16, 2025 National Convention in Ibadan, acting under Article 59(3) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).

Those expelled include:

1. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister of the FCT

2. Samuel Anyanwu, former National Secretary

3. Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN, former National Legal Adviser

4. Umar Bature, former National Organizing Secretary

5. Abdulrahman Mohammed, former National Vice Chairman, North Central

6. Ayo Fayose, former Governor of Ekiti State

7. George Turner

8. Austine Nwachukwu, former Imo State Chairman

9. Abraham Amah, former Abia State Chairman
   The party emphasized that the expulsions are “final and irrevocable.”

Turaki outlined his immediate priorities, assuring loyal members that the new leadership will:
• Begin healing and reconciliation among genuine members
• Enforce party discipline without fear or favour
• Rebuild party structures across the 36 states and the FCT
• Present a united and formidable opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections

“The PDP is alive, strong, and marching to victory in 2027. No amount of money, blackmail, or intimidation will stop us,” he declared.