Former presidential candidate Pat Utomi has revealed that he’s been at odds with Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), for half a century, yet they remain friends. Utomi’s statement came during an event in Abuja where the NDC launched a reconciliation panel aimed at resolving internal disputes from its congresses, convention, and primaries in preparation for the 2027 elections.
Utomi, a political economist, expressed confidence that the party would successfully bring its members back together before the elections. He remarked on the significance of the task at hand and appreciated the opportunity to work with his long-time friend, Galadima. Despite their long-standing differences, Utomi believes their friendship is proof that it’s possible to reconcile others.
Highlighting the NDC’s commitment to the future, Utomi emphasized the party’s focus on engaging Nigeria’s youth, pointing out that the nation’s median age is 19.5 years.
The NDC faces internal challenges, including disputes from congresses and post-primary elections. To address these issues ahead of the 2027 elections, a 23-member National Reconciliation Committee was established in Abuja on August 6, 2026. The committee, led by Utomi with Galadima as co-chairman, is charged with mediating conflicts and integrating dissatisfied members before campaign deadlines.
