Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have reiterated their commitment to transparency, unity, and internal democracy ahead of the party’s National Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking at the meeting of the PDP National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC) Protocol Sub-Committee held on Monday in Abuja, Chairman of the NCOC and Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, alongside Protocol Sub-Committee Chairman and Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, assured that all preparations are on track for a credible and successful convention.
The upcoming event will see the election of 19 new members of the National Working Committee (NWC) — a key outcome of the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on July 24, which resolved to restructure and reposition the PDP following months of internal crisis.
Wike’s Camp Raises Concerns
However, tensions persist within the party as the camp loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Umar Damagum-led NWC. The group has faulted decisions relating to the South-South zonal structure, as well as party leadership issues in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau States, and has warned that the convention may not hold unless the party revisits its micro-zoning arrangements.
Fintiri: “We Won’t Let the PDP Down”
Governor Fintiri reaffirmed the committee’s full commitment to the success of the convention, stressing that the process will be open, competitive, and fair.
“We are fully committed and will not leave any stone unturned. We are putting in our best and making sacrifices for us to have a successful convention,” Fintiri said.
He added that the PDP remains Africa’s largest political party and will produce a credible new NWC that reflects competence and integrity.
“Not under our leadership, not during our time, will we let this party down,” he declared.
“We will ensure that everyone who has purchased forms and passed screening will be allowed to test their popularity on the field. It’s a true democracy.”
Fintiri also assured that the delegate list would be made public, allowing aspirants to canvass for support ahead of the convention.
“It’s not a closed system; it’s open. Those who are popular and supported by the majority will be victorious,” he added.
Mutfwang: “The PDP Is Very Much Alive”
In his remarks, Governor Caleb Mutfwang said the enthusiasm within the committee shows that the PDP remains a vibrant and active political force despite recent challenges.
“Today’s meeting demonstrates that the PDP is very much alive and that we are taking the convention very seriously,” Mutfwang said.
“Those who founded this party would not want it to die in our time. We have a duty to keep the platform alive for Nigerians.”
He emphasized the importance of the Protocol Sub-Committee’s work in ensuring the Ibadan convention runs smoothly.
“If you see any meeting well-organized and with a lot of ease, it’s because the protocol was well handled,” he noted, adding that members will arrive in Ibadan ahead of other delegates to ensure proper arrangements.
Background
The PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, has faced months of internal division over leadership and zoning issues. The upcoming convention in Ibadan is widely seen as an opportunity for the party to reset its structure and rebuild unity ahead of future elections.