In a significant political development, former President Goodluck Jonathan has reassured the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of his unwavering commitment and active membership. This assurance came during a crucial meeting with the party's National Working Committee (NWC) led by its chairman, Kabiru Turaki.
Details of the Abuja Meeting Emerge
The closed-door meeting took place on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, at the former president's private office in the nation's capital, Abuja. According to a statement released by the PDP on its official social media channels, the visit was aimed at briefing Dr. Jonathan on the current state of the party, including its challenges and future prospects.
Kabiru Turaki explained that the delegation sought the former president's counsel and support. "We received his assurance that he is still a card-carrying member of the Peoples Democratic Party, remains active, and will be even more active," part of the chairman's statement read. This move is widely seen as an effort to consolidate the party's ranks ahead of future electoral contests.
Public Reaction and Calls for Transparency
The publication of the meeting's details has ignited a wave of reactions from Nigerians online, highlighting both support and deep-seated concerns about the party's direction.
Many comments focused on the need for greater internal democracy. One user, Oketayo Olufemi Gabriel, emphasized that political parties must be innovative and transparent in all their affairs, from meetings to member registration and candidate selection processes.
Other reactions were more critical, referencing past political decisions. A user named Chike Akpu pointedly asked, "Who brought APC to power in 2015? It was because Jonathan contested that caused it." This sentiment reflects ongoing debates about the PDP's historical missteps.
Broader Party Crisis and Resignations
This meeting occurs against a backdrop of persistent internal crisis within the PDP. The party recently suffered a major blow with the resignation of a former senator and diplomat, Abdallah Wali.
Wali's exit, communicated via a letter to his ward chairman in Sokoto State, is tied to the ongoing leadership struggle involving figures like Nyesom Wike and Seyi Makinde. Another commenter, Mcbob9ja, alleged that the PDP's biggest mistake was allowing certain figures to hijack the party while Jonathan remained silent.
Some commentators offered strategic advice, with Ephraimite suggesting an alignment with Peter Obi's political movement for the sake of electoral viability. Meanwhile, Gbenga Segun offered a grim prognosis, stating that "the liquidators have already started working within the party."
Implications for the PDP's Future
The engagement of Goodluck Jonathan is a clear attempt by the PDP's current leadership to draw on the influence and experience of one of its most prominent figures. His promise to play a more active role could be pivotal for party unity and strategy formulation, especially with an eye on the 2027 general elections.
However, the mixed public reception underscores the significant hurdles the party faces. It must navigate internal dissent, rebuild public trust through transparency, and present a cohesive front to challenge the ruling party. The coming months will reveal whether this reconciliation with Jonathan translates into a renewed political force or remains a symbolic gesture.
