ABUJA, Nigeria — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday, May 12, 2025, inaugurated 39 new members into its Board of Trustees (BoT), describing the move as a strategic step towards revitalising the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, was presided over by BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who said the newly inducted members were nominated based on their “dedication, experience, and unwavering loyalty” to the party.
“Today’s inauguration is not just a celebration of a new beginning, but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the values and principles of the PDP,” Wabara said.
“Your role as members of the board is not only to guide and support the leadership of the party but also to act as a stabilising force in times of challenges and uncertainties.”
Wabara underscored the significance of the new appointments amid political realignments and recent defections from the PDP.
He charged the new BoT members to uphold the party’s vision and act in the best interest of its unity and survival.
“As we prepare to navigate the evolving political landscape and work tirelessly to restore PDP as the foremost party in Nigeria, the task ahead is demanding,” Wabara said.
“But with unity, determination, and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, we shall overcome.”
Acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, in remarks delivered by acting National Secretary Setonji Koshoedo, congratulated the new members and assured them of the National Working Committee’s support.
He noted that the party would welcome even more additions to the BoT in the future.
Among the newly inaugurated BoT members are prominent political figures such as former Governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano), former Minister of Information Labaran Maku, and Nimota Ibrahim.
Addressing the media after the event, new BoT member Jones Onyeriri downplayed concerns over recent defections, saying the party remains strong and unified.
“Even Jesus Christ had some of his disciples defect,” Onyeriri quipped.
“For me, it is a sign that we are nearer to our crown. We have taken over and are still strong.”
Another inductee, Eddy Olafeso, described the BoT’s reinvigoration as “a regeneration of the glorious past” and pledged to work towards strengthening the PDP’s role as a formidable opposition.
“With the quality of leadership and the heritage of the past, we can make Nigeria better than it is today,” Olafeso said.
Responding to questions on his resignation as PDP South-West Vice Chairman to contest in the Ondo governorship primaries, Olafeso said the decision was grounded in principle.
“As a loyal member of the party, I had to step aside in line with our constitution,” he said.
“Discipline and commitment are part of democracy. I can’t take my party to court. I’ll continue to serve and do my best to solve the problems within the PDP.”
The event comes at a time when the PDP is battling internal divisions and a spate of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but party leaders say the reconstitution of its BoT is a signal of strategic repositioning and internal cohesion.
The Board of Trustees, often referred to as the “conscience of the party,” plays an advisory and stabilising role in the PDP’s operations and long-term vision.
