The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is forging ahead with its National Elective Convention slated for November 15th and 16th in Ibadan, Oyo State, despite facing internal dissent and a series of demands from a faction aligned with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. PDP Governors, led by the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, have affirmed their unwavering commitment to holding the convention as planned, dismissing Wike’s camp’s threats to invalidate the process as mere bluster. Mohammed, speaking on behalf of his gubernatorial colleagues, characterized Wike’s group as a “faction of fools” engaging in “shenanigans, arrogance, and impunity,” and vowed to uphold party discipline against those undermining its interests. This firm stance underscores the growing rift within the PDP and signals a power struggle between the established party leadership and the dissenting faction.
Wike’s group, operating under the banner of “Eminent Leaders and Concerned Stakeholders of the PDP,” presented a list of demands as prerequisites for their recognition of the convention’s legitimacy. These include a prohibition of micro-zoning of party offices, maintaining the National Chairmanship in the North-Central zone, conducting fresh congresses in Ebonyi, Anambra, and the South-East, upholding the results of the South-South Congress, and holding local government congresses in Ekiti State. The group argues that these measures are essential to ensure equity, justice, and inclusivity within the party, and that failure to meet these demands will render the convention “invalid.” This ultimatum highlights the deep-seated grievances within the party and the perceived marginalization of certain factions, threatening to derail the PDP’s efforts to rebuild and reposition itself for future elections.
The party leadership, however, remains resolute in its commitment to the scheduled convention. PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, emphasized the party’s strength and resilience, stating that the PDP is “marching forward; stronger, more determined, and better prepared” to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. Damagum characterized his leadership as one of “silence and tolerance” in the face of internal dissent, and expressed confidence in the convention’s success. His remarks reflect the party’s determination to project an image of unity and stability despite the internal challenges, and to emphasize its readiness to serve as a viable opposition force.
The Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Adolphus Wabara, echoed Damagum’s sentiment, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and democratic processes within the party. Wabara acknowledged the right of individual members to contest positions, irrespective of zoning arrangements, and stressed the need for collaboration and respect for the will of the majority. This message of internal democracy and open competition serves as a counterpoint to Wike’s camp’s demands and suggests a willingness to accommodate diverse viewpoints within the party, while still adhering to established procedures.
Ahmadu Fintiri, the Chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee, pledged to deliver a credible and successful convention, emphasizing his commitment to the party’s interests above personal relationships. Fintiri’s statement underscores the importance of prioritizing party unity and putting aside personal agendas for the collective good. This commitment to a fair and transparent convention process is crucial for the PDP to emerge from this period of internal strife stronger and more unified.
Beyond the official statements, various voices within the PDP have weighed in on the unfolding drama. Some, like former National Secretary Ibrahim Tsauri, accuse Wike of working with President Tinubu to destabilize the PDP, fueling speculation about external influences on the internal conflict. Others, like Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor, emphasize the importance of prioritizing the party’s interests over personal ambitions, urging all members to participate in the convention. The Bauchi State chapter of the PDP dismissed Wike’s demands as insignificant, emphasizing their alignment with the decisions of the National Executive Committee (NEC). These diverse perspectives highlight the complexities of the internal dynamics within the PDP and the varying interpretations of Wike’s motives and the potential impact of his actions on the party’s future.
