The newly elected Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Turaki, has pledged that his administration will introduce reforms designed to strengthen internal democracy and eliminate impunity within the party.
Speaking in his acceptance address on Saturday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Turaki acknowledged the significance of the mandate entrusted to him and expressed confidence in the party’s leadership organs.
“The cross you have given us means that you watch us also take it to the Nigerian people, and that we shall do. We are not under any illusion that the task placed on us is a simple one. Our party is at a crossroads now, but we are up to the task; we are up to the challenge,” he said.
The former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs disclosed that the newly constituted executive committee will soon release a strategic blueprint to guide its operations.
He added, “Very soon, we shall be rolling out what our guiding principles will be and the modus operandi for achieving them. When we do that, we shall be hitting the ground running from day one.”
Turaki reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s membership, stating that the mandate handed to him will be treated with utmost responsibility. He stressed that the PDP remains defined by its grassroots appeal.
“Today, as I talk to you, the only political party that has retained its name is the Peoples Democratic Party. This has been possible because this is the party of the Nigerian people. Make no mistake about it; we are returning the party to you, the people. There will be no more impunity,” he said.
Turaki was elected at the party’s national convention, where delegates from 17 states participated in choosing new national officers. He secured 1,516 votes in the election held at the Lekan Salami Stadium. Senator Yakubu Danmarke placed second with 275 votes, while former Oyo State Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja was announced as the new National Secretary.
