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The convention, reportedly backed by a camp loyal to a former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, has further widened existing cracks within the main opposition party, raising fresh concerns about its unity and preparedness for future elections.
But Olawepo-Hashim, reacting to the development, insisted that the need for reconciliation had not diminished, stressing that no meaningful progress could be made without unity among party stakeholders.
“Nothing has changed to alter the necessity for reconciliation and unity,” he said.
In a statement made available to The PUNCH, the PDP chieftain warned against the marginalisation of any bloc within the party, noting that such actions could further weaken its standing as a credible opposition platform.
“The PDP cannot afford to sideline any major bloc within its structure. Continued division will only undermine our collective strength and erode public confidence in the party,” he said.
He called on leaders of the opposing factions to urgently resume dialogue, urging them to prioritise the party’s survival over personal or group interests.
He stated, “There is an urgent need to harmonise party structures in line with previous agreements, as this remains the only viable path to restoring stability within the PDP.”
Olawepo-Hashim also pointed to ongoing legal battles as part of the resolution process, noting that the judiciary provides a legitimate avenue for addressing contentious issues arising from the parallel conventions and congresses.
“There are ongoing proceedings at the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. These processes provide lawful channels for resolving disputes, and a consent judgment is still possible if the parties are willing to make the necessary political compromises,” he stated.
He further emphasised the importance of preserving the founding ideals of the PDP, describing the party as an inclusive platform that must not be allowed to fracture along factional lines.
“The PDP was built as a broad-based platform for all Nigerians. We must not allow internal disagreements to destroy that legacy. Unity must take precedence over factional considerations,” he added.
The former presidential aspirant identified the existence of parallel National Working Committees and conflicting state structures as key issues fuelling the crisis, noting that these anomalies must be addressed through sincere reconciliation efforts.
He said, “Reconciliation should focus on resolving structural divisions, including parallel leadership organs and disputes arising from separate congresses across states.”
The PDP has in recent months been plagued by internal wrangling, with disputes over leadership and control of party structures dominating its affairs.
Political analysts have warned that the lingering crisis could significantly affect the party’s chances in future elections if not urgently resolved.
However, Olawepo-Hashim expressed optimism that the situation was not beyond redemption, maintaining that genuine engagement and political will could still restore unity within the party.
“With sincere dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to the collective good, the PDP can overcome its current challenges and emerge stronger,” he said.
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