Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is lively with final preparations for the national convention of the People's Democratic Party, as a p...
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is lively with final preparations for the national convention of the People's Democratic Party, as a possible conflict emerges between rival groups within the opposition party.
Scheduled to occur on Saturday and Sunday, the conference may be the most contentious in the PDP's history, as a group within the party has withdrawn.
As the event approached, the National Working Committee, under the leadership of National Chairman Umar Damagum, placed the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; the National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature; and the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, on a one-month suspension due to claims of anti-party behavior.
This was the follow-up to Justice James Omotosho's decision from the Federal High Court in Abuja, which suspended the convention, citing the party's failure to adhere to its own regulations.
Omotosho based his decision on the party's leadership failing to ensure that its appointed officials signed the convention notice prior to submitting it to the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Consequently, the judge prohibited INEC from overseeing the gathering.
Relief, nevertheless, arrived for the NWC led by Damagum as Justice Ladiran Akintola, via an ex parte motion, ordered the PDP to hold the convention.
Earlier in the week, Justice Peter Lifu seemingly extinguished the hopes of the leading opposition party by deciding a case brought before him by the former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, who had his convention suspended due to Lamido's failure to obtain a nomination form to run for the position of National Chairman at the event.
Once more, Justice Akintola prolonged his temporary order and instructed the PDP to proceed with the convention.
On Wednesday, the Lekan Salami Stadium, where the convention was held, appeared in a fresh new style, with large decorations in the party's colors still being put up as of Thursday morning.
More than 3,000 participants from the 36 states within the federation and the Federal Capital Territory are anticipated to take part in the gathering.
Additionally, party leaders, major stakeholders, and international observers, such as members of the diplomatic community, are anticipated.
The gathering will include the selection of important national leaders, such as a new National Chairman, National Secretary, and other significant figures within the NWC along with their assistants.
The PUNCH reported that Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, was present on Thursday to observe the progress being made at the Lekan Salami Stadium, with one day remaining until the major event.
It was reported that activities at the Lekan Salami Stadium would be aired to the public in English, Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa to promote accessibility, with live transmissions scheduled for international viewers.
24 states confirmed
The PDP's National Vice Chairman for the South-West region, Kamorudeen Ajisafe, stated that delegates, state chairmen, and party members had already begun arriving in Ibadan, Oyo State, in preparation for the party's convention.
By Thursday evening, participants from various states had begun to arrive at the location. Two members of the party from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, informed The PUNCH that they reached Ibadan around 12 pm on Wednesday.
In an interview with The PUNCH on Thursday, Ajisafe mentioned that the party has obtained the presence of delegates from at least two-thirds of the 36 states, fulfilling the constitutional condition for a valid convention. More than 3,000 delegates are legally anticipated to participate.
The convention is still very much in progress. People have begun to arrive—delegates, stakeholders, and state chairmen. We have achieved two-thirds attendance from the states, with only one or two in question," he said. "So, even if not all 36 states are present, having two-thirds is still sufficient.
Despite conflicting court decisions, Ajisafe emphasized that only a judgment from a higher court would be legally binding on the convention.
"From a legal perspective, when there are contradictory rulings from courts with equal authority, the decision does not hold binding power over either party. It serves as a persuasive example. Only a higher court can provide guidance," he explained.
Ajisafe further mentioned that the party anticipated the presence of officials from both security organizations and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the location.
"INEC will be present because we have adhered to the required rules and regulations set by INEC, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates a 21-day notice prior to the convention. We have fulfilled this requirement and also participated in the National Executive Committee meeting afterward. Therefore, we are all set," he stated.
Concerning the involvement of security agencies, Ajisafe stated: "That provides additional reassurance; they might arrive or they might not. However, they have a legal obligation to perform their duties, even in safeguarding demonstrators, let alone political parties, where it concerns life. As the largest political party, they must be present."
In response to former Senate President Bukola Saraki's proposal for establishing a caretaker committee, Ajisafe stated that this action could intensify the party's existing challenges. "Instead, the convention should determine if forming a caretaker committee is the right approach," he mentioned.
Meanwhile, while speaking with The PUNCH at the convention site on Thursday, Olajide Stanley, Secretary of the Venue Sub-Committee, stated that everything is ready for the convention.
Olajide, who is the representative of the Ibadan North West and South West Federal Constituency, was present at the convention site along with the state's Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal.
He stated, "As the Secretary of the Venue Sub-Committee working under the guidance of the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, I can confirm that right now, if you look around, the stages are being set up, the flags are displayed, rebranding is underway, and we are fully prepared."
I'll say we're approximately 60 percent prepared in terms of arrangements, and the convention is in full swing. We are very pleased that we are progressing under the leadership of Seyi Makinde, the host governor. We are prepared.
When asked about challenges, he responded, "From a logistical perspective, yes, as the Lagos-Ibadan expressway is quite busy at the moment. You can picture around 6,000 people attempting to reach Ibadan for this event tomorrow (today)."
So, it's quite intense, as heavy-duty trucks are transporting the stage and audio equipment here. These are simply the logistical challenges we're dealing with. Overall, we are prepared.
Meanwhile, an INEC representative mentioned that their legal team is examining the court rulings, with a decision on whether to participate in or skip the convention on Saturday anticipated shortly.
Our source stated, 'We will definitely make a decision before the convention starts.'
Saraki urges suspension
Nevertheless, former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, called on the party's leadership to put on hold its upcoming elective convention set for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Saraki, who served two terms as governor of Kwara State, issued the statement on Wednesday during a meeting with members of the PDP Board of Trustees Reconciliation Team at his Abuja home.
Saraki, head of the PDP National Reconciliation Committee, warned that holding the convention in the present situation would only intensify the crisis.
In a message posted through his verified X account, Saraki revealed that he had a meeting with the BoT Reconciliation Team, headed by Ambassador Hassan Adamu (Wakilin Adamawa), to talk about the party's future direction.
He stated, 'It was a significant and penetrating discussion where issues of major importance concerning our party were addressed.'
We had thorough discussions about the national convention planned for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan. I conveyed sincere disappointment that, although numerous party leaders worked tirelessly, the process has been caught up in significant political and legal disputes. This is not a positive development for our party or Nigeria's democracy.
Saraki highlighted that political conflicts are most effectively addressed through discussion instead of legal action, pointing out that "contradictory court rulings" have raised significant questions about the legitimacy of the proposed convention.
As a leader, I am unable to morally endorse any action that could harm the goals of our members," he said. "The only practical option at this point is for the party to form a Temporary Committee to manage its matters for a short period. This needs to happen within the next two days.
He argued that establishing a temporary framework would rebuild trust among members and offer a legitimate platform for candidates aiming to run for elections under the PDP.
In the current situation, no genuine politician would dare to challenge on a platform with an unclear legal status," Saraki cautioned. "Proceeding with the Ibadan convention will only intensify the crisis and squander resources. It's still not too late to seek a mutually beneficial solution for the stability and unity of our esteemed party.
Similarly, a PDP leader and former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim-Olawepo, stated during a speech in Abuja on Thursday, "The PDP cannot hold a convention this weekend. There is a need to reconcile the different groups and bring back unity."
If a gathering is organized at this time, it might increase the differences and result in more splitting. Measures are being implemented to guarantee a single, unified meeting, with the temporary committee's suggestion playing a key role in this initiative.
Hashim pointed out that although some might be resolved to move forward, many governors recognize that such actions could split the party.
"The PDP needs to be united. The caretaker committee does not support any group; it serves as an impartial platform to unite all parties and protect the party's future," he added.
George slams Saraki
In the meantime, the former Chairman of the party's Board of Trustees, Chief Bode George, expressed disapproval of Bukola Saraki's proposal to establish a temporary committee for the PDP.
Calling Saraki's advice "clearly foolish," the senior leader stated that no true PDP member would support delaying the convention.
"What is Saraki claiming? That's complete nonsense. Delegates have begun to arrive, and tomorrow (today), the Lagos delegates will depart for Ibadan," he stated.
George also blamed Saraki for involving the suspended National Legal Advisor, Mr. Ajibade, and raised doubts about the request for a caretaker committee. "We will proceed with our convention," he stated.
He also cautioned that anyone attempting to involve the PDP in unwarranted disputes was welcome to depart. "If they wish to leave, they should do so. The elders who established this party and passed it on to us would be upset at this development," he remarked.
Shun convention — AbdulRahman
The head of the PDP's faction, Mohammed AbdulRahman, has called on delegates to avoid the so-called national convention.
He placed the call during a gathering of progressive and democratic stakeholders who are loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at his home on Thursday.
"I want to clearly state to all PDP members in the 36 states and the FCT that our stance is open. We are lawful citizens and will follow the Federal High Court's decision as well as the other ruling issued yesterday (Wednesday). We will comply with both rulings," AbdulRahman said.
He stated, "We urge all our delegates throughout the federation to refrain from attending the so-called national convention in Ibadan. The court's rulings must be respected, and we are dedicated to maintaining a stable democracy in Nigeria. As Acting National Chairman, with the backing of the working committee and the Board Chairman, we will work with our leaders in all 36 states to restore the party to its proper custodians—the voters and the people of Nigeria."
Additionally, the Chairman of the factional Board of Trustees, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, cautioned members against attending the planned Ibadan convention, referring to it as a breach of an ongoing court injunction.
"While any group of Nigerians has the constitutional right to gather, these gatherings—when carried out in violation of current court decisions—lack legitimacy and do not have any binding impact on the PDP family," Ohuabunwa stated.
He stated, “The suggested national convention in Ibadan conflicts with the explicit ruling of the Federal High Court and weakens the rule of law. Hence, we urge all lawful party members, leaders, delegates, and interested parties to avoid any actions that contradict legal instructions and judicial clarity,” he mentioned in a statement released after the Board meeting.
In the meantime, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike praised PDP members for standing up for the party, noting that the faction would guarantee adherence to the rule of law and would not be swayed by threats.
"I am pleased with your attention to the party in your respective regions. I will keep supporting you all, and I will not let you down," he stated.
Additionally, during a conversation with one of our correspondents in Abuja on Thursday, Timothy Osadolor, a member of the Wike-led group and Deputy National Youth Leader of the party, mentioned that what is expected to occur in Ibadan will resemble an early Christmas celebration rather than a formal convention.
"The Ibadan convention, or whatever it's known as, is a disaster waiting to unfold for the party. We cannot be involved because the result will bring about destruction for the PDP," he stated.
Lamido’s suit
The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Thursday, did not issue a ruling in the case brought by former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, who is contesting his exclusion from running for the chairmanship role at the upcoming national convention of the People's Democratic Party.
Lamido sought the court's decision on the validity of his exclusion from the PDP chairmanship election, and also requested an order to halt the convention.
Justice Peter Lifu scheduled November 13 for a ruling following the final arguments presented by all involved parties.
Throughout the hearing, the plaintiff's lawyer, Jeph Njikonye (SAN); the PDP's representative, Omokayode Dada (SAN); Joseph Daudu (SAN), who acted on behalf of the defendants who joined the case; and the legal representative of the Independent National Electoral Commission presented their arguments and spoke to the court.
Previously, Justice Lifu, during the delivery of a decision on the ex parte motion submitted by Lamido, stated that the application was valid.
He pointed out that the previous governor provided adequate proof demonstrating that the PDP did not release the schedule for the convention as mandated by law.
In this regard, he issued a temporary order preventing the PDP from continuing with its planned national convention until the main case is resolved.
He also prevented INEC from observing, overseeing, or endorsing the results of the convention until the case is completely resolved.
He also believed that the balance of convenience supported Lamido, as he would face greater damage if illegally prevented from participating.
"Consequently, it is essential to issue the protective order to avoid irreversible harm," the judge decided.
Nevertheless, during the resumption of the session on Thursday, Justice Lifu was unable to present the verdict as previously planned.
The court clerk told the attorneys, the parties involved, and Lamido—who was in attendance— that the ruling was not yet prepared, and that all concerned would be officially informed of a new date.
Rivers PDP divided
The PDP chapter in Rivers State is divided on whether to take part in the national convention.
The head of the PDP faction in Rivers, Robinson Ewor, stated that his group will participate in the convention.
Yes, we are taking part. We are heading to Ibadan," he said to one of our reporters. Regarding the number of delegates from the state, he mentioned, "Until we arrive, as some are flying and others are coming by road, I will share the precise count.
Nevertheless, the group supporting Wike has adopted a different stance. Their publicity secretary, Kenneth Yorwika, stated that the Rivers branch affiliated with their organization would not participate in the convention, referring to court injunctions.
"We have received a Federal High Court ruling from Justice Omotosho that has stopped the convention. How can we go?" Yorwika asked.
He also mentioned a subsequent order issued by Justice Peter Lifu, initiated by the former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, which halted the convention until the main case is addressed.
Yorwika added, “Bukola Saraki suggested a dialogue session to address these problems instead of going to court, which might harm the party. He asked to be exempted from the convention. If the correct actions are not taken and the party ends up losing, the blame might fall on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory rather than the party itself.”
He highlighted that ongoing state congresses also render involvement impractical.
"If these assemblies are not completed, who will cast votes at the convention? The party needs to be unified, particularly if we are getting ready for the 2027 elections," he further stated.
The split in Rivers reflects the larger national conflicts within the PDP, as groups reference contradictory court rulings and varying understandings of party procedures to justify their positions.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).
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