Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has called on members of the Peoples Democratic Party who left during its leadership crisis to return and contribute to rebuilding the party.
The appeal was made during the inauguration of the PDP National Convention Committee in Abuja. The party has experienced internal disputes and legal challenges that affected its structure and representation in recent months.
Party stakeholders have continued to emphasise reconciliation and organisational reforms as part of efforts to stabilise the party and restore its position in national politics.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said former members who defected during the crisis remain important to the party’s future due to their experience and institutional knowledge.
She stated, “When I asked colleagues why they left, they mentioned internal disputes. I’m saying to them: trust me, it’s not greener on the other side. You’re welcome back to PDP.”
The lawmaker also noted a decline in the party’s representation in the Senate, stating that the number of PDP senators had reduced from 37 to six following the crisis.
Chairman of the convention committee, Okezie Ikpeazu, described the inauguration as “consequential” and a “moment of truth” for the party.
Ikpeazu acknowledged internal challenges and legal disputes but said the affirmation of the National Caretaker Working Committee by the Court of Appeal provides an opportunity for renewal.
He stated that the party needs “honest reconciliation, rooted in truth, driven by sincerity, and sustained by mutual respect.”
Party leaders indicated that reconciliation efforts and the planned national convention are aimed at rebuilding internal structures and strengthening unity among members.
The convention committee has been tasked with organising a transparent process to produce a new National Working Committee for the party.
