PDP swears in 39 new board of trustees members amid pledges of party loyalty, renewal
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) formally inaugurated 39 new members of its Board of Trustees (BoT) on Monday at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Senator Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the BoT, while administering the oath to the newly appointed members, stated that they were nominated by states and geopolitical zones on the basis of their loyalty, experience, and steadfast commitment to the party.
Wabara described the event as both a celebration of renewal and a collective reaffirmation of the PDP’s foundational values. He called on the new appointees to see their positions as a call to dedicated service, urging them to protect the unity, integrity, and vision of the party as it works towards building a stronger democratic Nigeria.
“Your responsibility as members of this board extends beyond advisory roles; you are to serve as a steadying presence during periods of uncertainty or internal challenges.
“This inauguration is especially meaningful as we gear up to reposition the PDP as the dominant political force in the country.
“The journey ahead will be tough, but with unity, resolve and fidelity to democratic ideals, we will prevail,” Wabara said.
He further reminded the new members that their roles carry both honour and responsibility.
“Let us remain united in upholding the legacy of our founding fathers and strive to foster a more inclusive and progressive PDP,” he added.
In a message delivered earlier, the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, congratulated the appointees and stated that more names would be added to the BoT in the future. Damagum, who was represented by the acting National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, pledged that the National Working Committee would continue to provide support to the board.
Newly inaugurated member, Jones Onyeriri, said that the composition of the board signified the resilience and internal strength of the PDP.
“Some defections to other parties are not troubling. Even Jesus had disciples who left him.
“So for me, these are signs that we are approaching our moment of restoration. We remain intact and unshaken.
“Anyone who is sabotaging the party is already on the outside. Trust me on that,” Onyeriri said.
Eddy Olafeso, another new board member, described the inauguration as a symbolic revival of the PDP’s proud heritage. He committed to working collaboratively with fellow members to ensure the party continues to provide vigorous and credible opposition.
“With our experienced leadership and the legacy we carry, there’s no reason why we cannot help make Nigeria better than it currently is,” Olafeso said.
Asked about his decision to step down from his role as South-West Vice-Chairman before contesting the Ondo governorship ticket, Olafeso said it was a constitutional necessity and a reflection of his commitment to party discipline.
“I couldn’t hold on to that position while seeking another. The rules of the party are clear.
“Discipline and commitment are crucial in a democracy. I acted responsibly, in line with the party’s constitution. I remain loyal and will never take the party to court. My focus remains on helping resolve our internal issues,” he said.
Other notable members inaugurated included Labaran Maku, Ibrahim Shekarau, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Samuel Ortom and Nimota Ibrahim.
