PDP MOVES AHEAD WITH NATIONAL CONVENTION DESPITE COURT ORDER

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Preparations for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention are progressing in Ibadan, Oyo State, notwithstanding conflicting judicial decisions and internal disputes regarding whether the event should advance. The convention is slated for November 15 and 16.

The lead-up has been complicated by varying judicial declarations concerning the legality of conducting the event. An Oyo State High Court last week permitted the party and its acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, to continue with arrangements for the convention. However, shortly thereafter, a High Court in Abuja issued a contradictory ruling, prohibiting the PDP from executing the convention and instructing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to oversee or acknowledge any activities associated with it.

The ambiguity intensified when a faction of the party, led by Sam Anyanwu, proclaimed a postponement of the convention. The Damagum-led national leadership refuted this assertion, insisting that no superior court had rendered a ruling sufficient to impede preparations.

In spite of the uncertainty, activity intensified in Ibadan on Friday as party officials continued logistical arrangements and inspections at the Lekan Salami Stadium, the designated venue for the convention. The stadium has been decorated in the PDP’s red, white, and green colors, with delegates already arriving in the city. On its official social media platform, the PDP shared images of the venue, proclaiming its readiness to proceed with what it characterized as a convention capable of influencing the party’s trajectory in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.

The party’s position was further solidified following a Thursday night assembly of principal PDP stakeholders at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja. Participants—including members of the National Working Committee, current and former governors, National Assembly representatives, Board of Trustees members, and state chairpersons—unanimously resolved to carry out the convention as scheduled, deeming the November dates “irrevocable. ”

Amid the mounting tensions, former Senate President Bukola Saraki called for the suspension of the convention entirely. Saraki contended that establishing a caretaker committee represented the most feasible avenue for reconciliation and stability, asserting that such a measure would bolster confidence among members eager to contest future elections on the PDP platform.

Despite his appeal, the party leadership remains resolute in its commitment to proceed with the convention.