Introduction to the PDP National Elective Convention
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday proceeded with its National Elective Convention in Ibadan despite multiple court rulings seeking to halt the exercise. The 10,000-capacity Adamasingba Stadium and adjoining areas were packed with delegates, officials and supporters from across the country.
Opening of the Convention
The convention opened with the presentation of flags to key party leaders. PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Ilya Damagum, received the party flag, while Chairman of the Convention Committee and Adamawa State governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, received the Convention Flag. Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, received the Nigerian Flag, while the host governor, Seyi Makinde, received the Oyo State Flag. Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, and Hon. Fred Agbedi received the Senate and House of Representatives flags respectively.
Accreditation and Attendance
Accreditation of more than 3,000 delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory began in the afternoon, after thousands had already arrived in Ibadan since Friday. Makinde, on the eve of the convention, hosted a dinner attended by PDP governors, former governors, the Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, and members of the National Working Committee.
Court Rulings and Party Response
Despite an Abuja High Court ruling obtained by former Adamawa governor, Sule Lamido, and other subsisting court orders seeking to stop the event, party leaders insisted the convention would continue. Members of the Board of Trustees expressed confidence in the legality of the exercise. National Vice Chairman (South South), Emma Ogini, told The Guardian that the rulings posed no threat to the process. “Look at the delegates and the crowd—they came voluntarily. We will appeal the judgments. This party is an Iroko tree; no amount of scheming from the APC or federal might can uproot it,” he said, while alleging that President Bola Tinubu was behind the crisis in the party.
Party Leaders’ Remarks
Former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, criticised Lamido for taking the party to court, saying the convention and its outcome would stand “regardless of the antics of the party’s undertakers.” Fintiri, in his opening remarks, dismissed the “deliberate obstacles” placed before the PDP, assuring delegates that the resolutions reached at the convention would remain valid. Damagum, welcoming delegates, urged members to remain calm and committed to the party’s revival. He commended Makinde, the Convention Committee and state governors for their roles in organising the exercise.
Declaration of the Convention Open
At exactly 4:06 p.m., Damagum formally declared the convention open. In his address Makinde expressed confidence that the ongoing convention will mark a major turning point for the party at the national level. The governor commended the resilience and steadfastness of PDP members nationwide, noting that the journey to the convention had been long and challenging.
Governors’ Remarks
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, who spoke on behalf of the PDP Governors Forum, said the gathering reflected a collective resolve to reposition the party. “We are here today as a united front to move this party forward,” he stated. “I therefore enjoin all who are present to cooperate with us so that we can safeguard the future of this party.” Governors present included Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Dauda Lawal (Zamfara) while the Deputy Governor of Osun State represented his principal, Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Conclusion
The PDP National Elective Convention marked a significant event in the party’s history, with thousands of delegates and supporters in attendance. Despite court rulings and obstacles, the party leaders remained resolute in their commitment to the convention and the party’s revival. The outcome of the convention is expected to have a major impact on the party’s future at the national level.
FAQs
Q: What was the purpose of the PDP National Elective Convention?
A: The purpose of the convention was to elect new party leaders and reposition the party.
Q: Where was the convention held?
A: The convention was held at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan.
Q: How many delegates attended the convention?
A: Over 3,000 delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory attended the convention.
Q: Were there any court rulings against the convention?
A: Yes, there were multiple court rulings seeking to halt the exercise, but the party leaders proceeded with the convention.
Q: Who were some of the notable party leaders present at the convention?
A: Some of the notable party leaders present included Ambassador Ilya Damagum, Ahmadu Fintiri, Senator Bala Mohammed, and Seyi Makinde.
