PDP expands BoT, as Ortorm, Igbinedion, Maku, Tukur, amongst 39 new members 

In a move to strengthen the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, ahead of the 2027 election, the party on Monday Inaugurated 39 new members, amongst them, former Governors, Ministers and lawmakers

The new members of the Board of Trustees who were inaugurated on Monday include former Benue state Governors, Samuel Ortorm, Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, Lucky Igbinedion of Edo State,
Gayius Ishaku of Taraba State and Ibrahim Shekarau, former Kano State Governor

Others include Labaran Maku, former Minister of Information under former President Goodluck Jonathan, Zainab Kure former Senator and Auwal Tukur, former member of the House of of Representatives.

Others are Onikepo Oshodi, Hamid Badamasi Bello Suleiman, Mohammed Gusau, Bagudu Hilse, Mustapha Kabir, Zainab Galadinma, Chinwe Onuora, Gbenga Onigbogi and Mulikat Ladoja.

Ahmed Markarfi, Secretary of the PDP Board of Trustees, and former Governor of Kaduna State, announced that 23 of the new members were nominated by their states, while 16 are representing the zones.

Adolphus Wabara, the BoT Chairman, in his welcome remarks, expressed deep hope for the party, despite the recent wave of defection that hit the party.

“I am overwhelmed,d and I’m sure that my colleagues and friends here present are equally overwhelmed to see and witness that we still have this retinue of quality Nigerians in this great party, which speaks volumes. The board of trustees has always contended that the PDP shall not die. This is manifesting itself now”

Wabara said the ” God of PDP never sleeps and will never sleep”

Wabara noted that the new inductees were a distinguished group of individuals whose dedication, experience and unwavering loyalty to the Party have earned them a place on this prestigious board.
He however, reminded them that their appointment is ” a call to service, a call to uphold the integrity, unity and vision of our party as we continue to strive for a more prosperous and democratic Nigeria.

“As custodians of the party’s conscience, the BOT plays a critical role in providing wise counsel, fostering stability and ensuring that our decisions align with the core objectives of the PDP.

“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.

“Today’s inauguration is particularly significant as we prepare to navigate the evolving political landscape and work tirelessly to restore the PDP as the foremost party in Nigeria. The task ahead is demanding, but with unity, determination and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, we shall overcome.

“To our new members, I urge you to remember that your presence on the board is not just a position of honour, but a position of responsibility. It is a call to serve with integrity, transparency and an unwavering dedication to the collective good of our party and our nation.

He also charged the new BoT members to work together to uphold the vision of the founding fathers and to build a stronger, more inclusive and more progressive PDP.

“Together, we shall lead our party to new heights of success and relevance in the Nigerian political landscape”

Iliya Damagum, acting National Chairman of the Party, represented by the acting National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo: also noted that the Board of Trustees as the conscience of the party, the Constitution entrusts it with the great responsibility of guiding the PDP; not just as Nigeria’s leading party but as a beacon for Africa.

The acting Secretary who was performing his first official role since he was appointed, added that  ” We in the NWC are here as your chief servants, ready to rely on your advice and guidance.

The party assured the new inductees of its full support in ensuring the smooth running of the party.