PDP fragile truce: Convention goes ahead despite court threats—Wike camp

2026-03-29 - 04:43

•2,500 delegates storm Abuja •Reconciliation continues after exercise – FCT Minister By Omeiza Ajayi & Luminous Jannamike The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Caretaker Working Committee, NCWC, has declared that nothing will stop its 2026 National Convention from holding today, brushing aside reported court threats and internal divisions in a bold show of authority ahead of the crucial gathering. The party leadership, backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said the convention would proceed as scheduled, describing it as a defining moment that would reaffirm the PDP’s unity, legality and readiness for the 2027 general elections. Spokesman of the NCWC, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, made the position known at a press briefing in Abuja, insisting that all arrangements had been concluded and that the exercise would be credible, transparent and in line with the law. “Tomorrow’s convention marks yet another defining moment in the life of the PDP, a moment that reaffirms our democratic ideals, our respect for due process, and our unwavering dedication to the will of the people,” he said. He added: “We wish to assure all party faithful and the general public that this convention is being conducted in full compliance with the constitution of our party and in line with all relevant laws.” Dismissing speculations about possible court action, Jungudo said the party had not been served with any legal notice. “As you have heard, the convention will go ahead tomorrow, and all arrangements have been concluded. By the grace of God, on March 29, the convention will hold as scheduled,” he said. The NCWC also distanced its process from that of a rival faction allegedly backed by Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, insisting its own convention had firm legal backing. “That gathering was not backed by law and was, in fact, restricted by a competent court. In our case, we have the full backing of the courts, the law and the members of the party,” he added. While acknowledging internal disagreements, the party downplayed the crisis, describing it as normal in a large political family. “Even within an extended family, you do not expect everyone to be on the same page. We currently have the largest following within the party,” Jungudo said. He, however, stressed that reconciliation remained open but would not stall the party’s direction. “The party has taken a direction. Anyone who feels aggrieved and chooses not to align with us is within their constitutional rights,” he stated. On allegations of lack of transparency in the nomination process, Jungudo dismissed the claims. “If you are reporting for a media organisation that is unaware of the process, then perhaps the organisation is not well informed,” he said. He also acknowledged the role of the FCT Minister in providing an enabling environment for the exercise. “We have complied with all party regulations and processes. We are fully compliant, 100 per cent compliant. By the grace of God, the convention will hold tomorrow,” he added. PDP vows to use 2027 polls to show strength Meanwhile, no fewer than 2,500 delegates have stormed Abuja for the convention, as the party vowed to use the 2027 general elections to demonstrate its political strength. Speaking after inspecting facilities at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome, venue of the convention, Wike said the PDP was poised to “shock Nigerians” with its performance at the polls. He dismissed legal challenges from the Tanimu Turaki group, noting that an appeal at the Supreme Court would not affect the convention. “There is room for accommodation. The PDP is a very large party. Look at the umbrella, it is wide enough to accommodate everyone. “I have always said that in any group, there will be grievances. You cannot expect that in a family of two or three people, everyone would always be satisfied, let alone a party with millions of members. There will always be a few who are not happy. We have agreed to sit down with them, understand their concerns, and see how we can accommodate them. What is most important is the overall interest of the party,” he said. On zoning, Wike disclosed that the party had concluded arrangements to ensure a smooth leadership transition. “We have already zoned our positions. Every zone has its own slots. The presidency has been zoned to the South, while the chairmanship is zoned to the North. We believe this consensus arrangement will make the process easier. “For the first time, the PDP is presenting a unified front, rather than the usual ‘unity list’ that often reflects internal divisions. There are no factions. Everyone has agreed on the direction we are taking,” he stated. Expressing satisfaction with preparations, Wike said the party was almost fully set for the exercise. “We are fully prepared. This visit is to assess final arrangements. As I said, we are about 95 per cent ready, and by Saturday, everything will be set. “Seating arrangements for all states have been completed and the VIP section is ready. We do not expect more than 2,500 delegates,” he added. The National Convention is scheduled to hold today, March 29, and continue on Monday, March 30.