A new PDP crisis may be brewing ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for November 14, 2025 in Ibadan. Recent congresses held at ward, local government, and zonal levels have sparked serious disputes.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, rejected the Southeast zonal election that produced Ali Odefa as National Vice Chairman. He said a court had already ruled that Odefa is no longer a member of the party.
Wike also warned that the outcome of the Southsouth congress, held in Calabar, must be accepted. Chief Dan Orbih emerged from that congress as the National Vice Chairman (Southsouth), but some PDP leaders and governors reportedly opposed it.
Acting PDP Chairman Umar Damagum said the Southsouth congress lacked support from the zonal governors. Wike dismissed that claim and accused Damagum of fueling more division within the party.
He said if the party refuses to recognize the outcome of the Southsouth congress, another PDP crisis will erupt.
Wike said the court allowed the congress to proceed and that INEC was notified after the election, not before. He insisted the party must uphold the result.
Convention Plans and Party Timeline
The PDP plans to hold its elective national convention on November 14, with new leaders expected to take over by December 8.
Key dates include:
- August 24: NWC meeting
- August 25: NEC and National Caucus meetings
- August 26 – September 1: Zonal consultations
- September 3 – 22: Sale of nomination forms
- October 1: List of cleared aspirants released
- October 10: Final list of candidates published
Wike warned that unless the issues from the Southsouth and Southeast congresses are resolved, the upcoming PDP convention could face major disruptions.
He added that the party’s past mistakes, including tolerating impunity and weak leadership, must not be repeated.
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