..as Faction Holds Controversial Ibadan Convention
Amid deepening tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former presidential candidate and founding member of the party, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has urged immediate reconciliation and a return to the party’s original principles, warning that Nigeria’s democracy is at stake.
Hashim issued the statement on Sunday as a faction of the PDP proceeded with a controversial National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, despite a string of contradictory court orders and even a subsisting court judgment restraining the faction from holding the Convention. The development has further exposed the widening cracks within the major opposition party.
In his intervention, Hashim reminded Nigerians of the party’s historic origins 27 years ago, describing the founding of the PDP as one of the most remarkable demonstrations of political maturity in the Country’s history. He noted that the party’s formation brought together over 13 political associations, each robust enough to stand independently, united through dialogue, broad consultation, and a deep spirit of inclusion.
According to him, the founding leaders deliberately created a platform capable of preventing military adventurism, safeguarding the unity and indivisibility of the Nigerian State, and promoting genuine Federalism.
He emphasized that this inclusive and consultative spirit was the reason the PDP secured almost two-thirds of elected positions during the December 1998 local government election, an early success that helped stabilize Nigeria’s democratic order.
Hashim stressed that the current path of fragmentation, court induced confusion, and exclusionary politics is a dangerous departure from the party’s foundational ideals.
“Inclusion, not exclusion, is the tradition of the PDP,” he warned. “We must strive to bring all sides back to the table to save the PDP and save Nigeria’s democracy.”
He insisted that the party’s revival depends on genuine unity and purposeful reconciliation, urging leaders to commit to a single watchword, “We must not leave anyone behind.”
Hashim added a scriptural reminder, noting that the Bible teaches that “to every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). He stressed that this is not the season to expel members, it is the season to reconcile and bring new members, it is the season to save the PDP in order to save Nigeria’s democracy.
As the PDP continues to navigate legal disputes, factional activities, and internal distrust, Hashim’s intervention adds pressure on party stakeholders to abandon parallel structures and return the party to a cohesive and credible opposition force, one capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic future.
