Ex-minister, Turaki emerges new PDP chairman, vows to meet expectations

Following his election as Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the party’s National Convention in Ibadan on Saturday, Kabiru Turaki has pledged to meet the expectations of party members and Nigerians at large.

Turaki became the new chairman during the convention held in the Oyo State capital, where delegates from 17 states participated in choosing national officers.

The former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs secured 1,516 votes at the event held in the Lekan Salami Stadium.

Senator Ben Obi, who oversaw the electoral process, announced that Senator Yakubu Danmarke finished second with 275 votes.

In his acceptance speech, Turaki acknowledged the enormity of the responsibility ahead but maintained that the party’s leadership is fully prepared for the challenges.

“The cross you have given us means that you watch us also take it to the Nigerian people, and that we shall do… Our party is at a crossroads now, but we are up to the task; we are up to the challenge,” Turaki said.

He further stated that the party would soon unveil its guiding principles and operational strategies, promising to begin work immediately.

Turaki reassured party members that the trust placed in him would not be taken lightly, pledging to carry out his mandate with dedication.

He added: “Today, as I talk to you, the only political party that has retained its name is the Peoples Democratic Party… Make no mistake about it; we are returning the party to you, the people. There will be no more impunity.”

The convention, which attracted over 3,000 delegates from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, started on November 15 and extended into the early hours of November 16.