The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a split among its state chapters as the party holds its national convention in Abuja. The convention is organized by the faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, despite a pending Supreme Court case challenging its legality.
Some state chapters, including Edo and Sokoto, have opted not to attend the convention, citing ongoing legal disputes and a desire to remain neutral in the leadership disagreement. Edo State PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi warned that participating could be considered a violation of the law, while Sokoto PDP emphasized its independence from any faction.
In contrast, other chapters, such as Kwara, Kebbi, and Osun, confirmed their participation. Kwara State PDP Chairman Alhaji Isa Bawa explained that delegates would attend following internal discussions and previous involvement in earlier conventions.
Kebbi State Secretary Abubakar Kalgo assured that all delegates were prepared to take part fully, and Osun PDP leadership also pledged attendance.
The convention, scheduled to run from Sunday to Monday at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, is expected to host about 2,500 delegates. The party plans to confirm Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman, Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Acting National Secretary, and 17 others to complete the 19-member National Working Committee.
Wike described the convention as a step toward reconciliation and internal unity, stating that the party’s structure can accommodate different viewpoints. He maintained that zoning arrangements would facilitate consensus in selecting leadership positions. Meanwhile, the faction aligned with Kabiru Turaki has distanced itself, with several governors and leaders confirming they will not attend the event.
The convention comes at a time when PDP faces internal divisions, as the party navigates both leadership disputes and preparations for the 2027 general elections. Delegates’ participation and the outcome of the convention are expected to shape the party’s direction in the months ahead.