Crisis Rocks PDP as Factional Chairman Suspends National Convention
The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a new turn yesterday as the factional National Chairman, Mohammed Abdulrahman, announced the suspension of the party’s proposed National Convention, earlier scheduled to hold in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025.
Suspension of National Convention
The decision followed the recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, delivered by Justice Omotosho in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025, as well as the party’s decision to appeal the ruling. Abdulrahman disclosed that the party’s legal department, led by National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), had thoroughly reviewed the judgment and advised that an appeal be filed to seek judicial clarification in the interest of the party and democracy.
Reaction from Party Leaders
Flanked by other members of the National Working Committee (NWC), the acting chairman explained that proceeding with the convention at this stage would amount to a breach of the rule of law, stressing that the party would not condone any act that undermines judicial authority. However, former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Olabode George, accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of weaponising the judiciary to destabilise political parties and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
Accusations of Judicial Interference
George described the Federal High Court ruling that stopped the PDP’s planned national convention in Ibadan as “an aberration”, warning that no court has jurisdiction over matters strictly within a political party’s internal affairs. He urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and the National Judicial Council (NJC) to call the judge to order.
Closure of National Secretariat
Factional National Secretary of the PDP, Samuel Anyanwu, explained that the continued closure of the party’s national secretariat in Abuja was necessary to protect lives and property following reports of imminent attack. He dismissed reports that the closure was connected to the leadership tussle rocking the party, explaining that it was purely a security precaution.
Reconciliation Efforts
In a last-ditch effort to fix the party, the Board of Trustees (BoT), led by former Senator President Adolphus Wabara, yesterday, in Abuja, set up a reconciliation committee. The BoT pledged support for the Damagun-led NWC, even as it declared that, contrary to recent developments in the party, the PDP remains a united, formidable, and focused political party under Damagun’s watch.
Party’s Determination to Proceed with Convention
While disclosing the party’s determination to proceed with the convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, the elders’ caucus of the party expressed dismay over recent misgivings within the ranks that have caused great concern to Nigerians. The BoT welcomed the ruling of the Oyo State High Court, presided over by Justice A. L. Akintola, which affirmed the party’s constitutional right and liberty to manage its internal affairs, including the holding of the 2025 Elective National Convention as scheduled.
PDP Remains Strong and United
The party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, reassured that the party remains strong and united to take the reins in the 2027 elections. He stressed that PDP, which had been a major opposition party in the state, would not rest until it wins across the 20 local councils and 236 wards in the state in the next general elections.
Conclusion
The crisis rocking the PDP has taken a new turn with the suspension of the national convention and the closure of the national secretariat. Despite the challenges, the party remains determined to proceed with the convention and is taking steps to reconcile its differences. The party’s leaders are confident that the PDP will emerge stronger and more united, ready to take on the challenges of the 2027 elections.
FAQs
- What is the current crisis rocking the PDP?
The current crisis rocking the PDP is the suspension of the national convention and the closure of the national secretariat, as well as the leadership tussle between different factions of the party. - Who is the factional National Chairman of the PDP?
The factional National Chairman of the PDP is Mohammed Abdulrahman. - What is the reason for the closure of the national secretariat?
The national secretariat was closed to protect lives and property following reports of imminent attack. - Is the PDP still united despite the crisis?
Yes, according to the party’s leaders, the PDP remains strong and united despite the crisis. - What is the party’s plan for the 2027 elections?
The PDP is determined to take the reins in the 2027 elections and is working to reconcile its differences and emerge stronger and more united.
Source: guardian.ng
