Ex-Minister Turaki Emerges Northern PDP Consensus Candidate for Chairmanship
Fintiri announces decision after meeting of Northern PDP leaders in Abuja
Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the North have endorsed former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, SAN, as their consensus candidate for the position of National Chairman ahead of the party’s convention scheduled for November in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The decision was announced by Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, after a meeting of Northern PDP leaders held in Abuja on Wednesday night.
Governor Fintiri said the choice of Turaki followed wide consultations among stakeholders in the region. He added that the move was aimed at strengthening party unity and ensuring a smooth convention.
He, however, stated that the consensus arrangement would not stop any aspirant who wishes to contest from doing so.
“After wide consultations, we have agreed to adopt Tanimu Turaki, SAN, as our consensus candidate for the position of National Chairman. But the process remains open to anyone who wants to contest at the convention,” Fintiri said.
Before the endorsement, former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi, ex-Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, and Turaki were among those being considered for the top position.
Turaki, who hails from Kebbi State, is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a seasoned politician. He served as Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, and later contested the PDP presidential ticket in 2019. Known for his calm demeanor and strong advocacy for internal democracy, Turaki has remained a respected voice within the party’s northern bloc.
The PDP national convention in Ibadan next month is expected to produce new national officers as the party works to reposition itself ahead of future elections.