The forum of state chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated Kabiru Turaki on his election as the new national chairman of the party.

The message, dated November 23 and signed by Tony Aziegbemi, chairman of the forum and head of the Edo state chapter, alongside 25 other state chairmen, described Turaki’s emergence as an affirmation of his integrity, capacity and commitment to the party.

The forum said it is confident that under Turaki’s leadership, the PDP will “continue to advance its mission of rescuing and rebuilding Nigeria”.

The forum commended Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state for hosting a “seamless and successful” national convention in Ibadan.

The forum also applauded Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi and chair of the governors’ forum, as well as Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa and chair of the convention organising committee, and Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau.

The forum further appreciated Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara and Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun.

The forum acknowledged the contributions of other critical organs of the PDP and said it remains committed to defending the ideals of the party despite what it described as “calculated pressures and institutional oppressions”.

The new National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP emerged at the party’s national elective convention held in Ibadan from November 15 to 16.