The Peoples Democratic Party on Wednesday presented certificates of return and nomination forms to its candidates during the party’s 109th National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja.
At the gathering, FCT Minister and PDP National Leader, Nyesom Wike, urged party members to stop dwelling on the party’s current challenges and instead focus on rebuilding its structures and winning future elections.
Wike said political power is not handed over to anyone willingly, noting that parties and candidates must work hard, remain determined and organise effectively if they hope to succeed at the polls. He advised members to return to their constituencies and contribute meaningfully to the party’s efforts rather than depending on others to secure victories for them.
According to him, every party stakeholder must be able to show what they have delivered politically, whether through winning legislative seats, strengthening support bases or expanding the party’s reach in their respective areas.
The former Rivers State governor also expressed confidence that the Independent National Electoral Commission’s planned release of access codes for political parties to upload candidates would help settle questions surrounding the party’s leadership.
He maintained that the PDP would continue preparing for elections regardless of ongoing legal disputes and urged members to remain focused on the party’s goals.
Earlier, PDP National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed praised party members and leaders for their commitment and participation in the NEC meeting. He also commended state chapters for conducting peaceful primary elections, describing the process as evidence of the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
Mohammed expressed confidence in the electoral process and called on members to continue supporting democratic institutions while working towards future electoral victories.
Also speaking at the meeting, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, congratulated candidates who emerged from the party’s primaries and appealed for unity among members.
He urged leaders to reach out to aggrieved members and ensure reconciliation across the party, stressing that internal cohesion would be crucial for success in future elections.
Ohuabunwa further encouraged members to intensify voter registration efforts, strengthen grassroots structures and mobilise support across communities ahead of upcoming polls.
The party later presented Certificates of Return to its 2027 presidential candidate, Senator Sandy Onor, alongside governorship candidates and other party flagbearers.
Party leaders expressed optimism about the PDP’s prospects and called on members nationwide to remain united as preparations for future elections continue.