Fresh cracks have widened within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the faction backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde moves to unveil a 10-member caretaker committee, with Tanimu Turaki (SAN) tipped to lead the body.

The committee is expected to be announced on Monday following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja.

BoT backs Turaki amid leadership vacuum claims

Sources said the Adolphus Wabara-led Board of Trustees (BoT) endorsed Turaki during a meeting held on Sunday, citing his acceptability across party ranks.

Opening the session, Wabara insisted the party would not bow to what he described as “renegades and political brigands,” adding that the BoT had stepped in to stabilise the PDP.

He argued that recent developments had created a leadership vacuum within the party.

Supreme Court ruling fuels crisis

The move follows the Supreme Court’s April 30 judgment, which invalidated the Makinde-backed PDP national convention held in Ibadan.

In a split decision, the apex court ruled that the exercise violated subsisting court orders, intensifying the party’s internal crisis.

Wabara said the BoT had secured the required backing to convene the NEC meeting and restore order.

Mixed views over Turaki’s emergence

A source at the meeting said most BoT members supported Turaki’s emergence as caretaker chairman, describing him as widely accepted.

“Most members believe Turaki has boosted the party’s image and remains acceptable,” the source said.

However, another insider noted that some members proposed alternative candidates, although indications suggest Turaki may eventually emerge.

Makinde eyes 2027 presidential bid

In a related development, sources revealed that Governor Makinde is expected to formally declare his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election within the week.

He is said to be committed to remaining in the PDP despite the ongoing crisis.

Wike faction rejects move

Meanwhile, the faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismissed claims of a leadership vacuum.

The group’s publicity secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, described the BoT meeting as inconsequential, insisting that the current leadership remains intact.

“The meeting they held was just a gathering of people taking tea,” he said, adding that any outcome from it is a nullity.

The PDP has remained divided for months, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s structure as political alignments intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.