The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will proceed with its national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, despite ongoing internal disagreements within the party.
Speaking on Friday night after inspecting the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome in Abuja, the venue for the convention, Wike emphasized that reconciliation efforts among aggrieved members would continue even after the event.
He expressed optimism about the party’s future, stating that the PDP is poised to make a strong political comeback in the 2027 general elections.
According to Wike, “There is room for accommodation. The PDP is a very large party. Like the umbrella symbol suggests, it is wide enough to accommodate everyone.”
He acknowledged the presence of grievances within the party but described them as inevitable in any large political organization. He added that party leaders are committed to engaging dissatisfied members to address their concerns in the overall interest of unity.
On the issue of zoning, Wike disclosed that key party positions have already been allocated across regions to ensure balance. He noted that the presidency has been zoned to the South, while the national chairmanship has been designated for the North.
“For the first time, the PDP is presenting a unified front, rather than the usual ‘unity list’ that often reflects internal divisions. There are no factions; everyone has agreed on the direction we are taking,” he said.
Wike also dismissed concerns over a Supreme Court appeal filed by a group led by Tanimu Turaki, stating that it would not affect the convention.
He further revealed that preparations for the event are nearly complete, with logistics and seating arrangements finalized for an expected 2,500 delegates.
The convention is set to take place in Abuja on Sunday and Monday, with party stakeholders expected to deliberate on key issues ahead of future electoral contests.
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