City Abuzz as Delegates Arrive
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is alive with political energy as preparations for the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP), national convention enter their final stages. Set to take place this Saturday and Sunday, the convention has become one of the most contentious in the party’s history. Over 3,000 delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are expected, alongside key party leaders, international observers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The Lekan Salami Stadium, the venue for the event, has undergone extensive rebranding, with massive decorations, stages, and party colors taking shape. Preparations are ongoing despite heavy traffic on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, which has slowed the arrival of delegates and logistical equipment.
Suspended Leaders and Legal Hurdles
Tensions have been stoked by the suspension of three senior PDP officials—Senator Samuel Anyanwu (National Secretary), Umar Bature (National Organising Secretary), and Kamaldeen Ajibade (National Legal Adviser)—for allegedly engaging in anti-party activities. This move followed a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which temporarily barred the convention over procedural lapses, including the failure to have party officials sign and transmit the convention notice to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The legal drama intensified with conflicting court orders. Justice Ladiran Akintola later allowed the convention to proceed, while Justice Peter Lifu had earlier ruled in favor of former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido, who claimed he was unfairly barred from contesting the party chairmanship. These contradictory rulings have created a legal gray area, leaving the party scrambling to assert the convention’s legitimacy.
Two Sides of a Divided Party
Inside the PDP, opinions are sharply divided. National Vice Chairman (South-West) Kamorudeen Ajisafe insisted the convention is legally valid, noting that delegates from at least two-thirds of states have confirmed attendance, meeting constitutional requirements. “The convention is still very much on. Only a superior court ruling can override this process,” Ajisafe stated.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki, however, has urged the party to suspend the convention and instead establish a caretaker committee to resolve internal disputes. “Proceeding under current circumstances would deepen the crisis and waste resources,” he warned. Former presidential aspirant Gbenga Hashim-Olawepo echoed Saraki’s call, arguing that a caretaker committee would provide a neutral platform to unite all factions.
In contrast, PDP elder statesman Bode George dismissed Saraki’s proposal as “arrant nonsense,” insisting the convention must proceed. “Delegates have started arriving, and tomorrow, the Lagos delegates will leave for Ibadan. We are going on with our convention,” George said, warning dissenting voices to step aside.
Rivers State Reflects National Rift
The schism within the PDP is mirrored in Rivers State, where one faction confirmed participation in the convention, while the faction loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike vowed to stay away, citing court orders. “The convention contradicts Federal High Court rulings and undermines the rule of law,” said Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, chairman of the factional Board of Trustees. Wike’s group has emphasized the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue rather than litigation.
Preparations in Full Swing
Despite the political turmoil, on-the-ground preparations continue at the Lekan Salami Stadium. Olajide Stanley, Secretary of the Venue Sub-Committee, confirmed that stages are set up, flags are flying, and branding is nearly complete. “We are about 60 percent ready in terms of setup, and the convention is going on full force. We are extremely delighted under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde,” he said.
The convention is expected to feature the election of key national officers, including the National Chairman, National Secretary, and other members of the NWC and their deputies. Events will be broadcast live in English, Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa to ensure inclusivity, with global streaming planned.
INEC, Security, and the Road Ahead
INEC has yet to confirm its presence at the convention, with officials reviewing conflicting court orders before deciding whether to monitor or boycott the event. Security agencies are also expected to oversee proceedings to ensure the safety of delegates and stakeholders.
As Ibadan awaits the official start of the convention, the PDP finds itself at a critical crossroads. Legal disputes, factional rivalries, and logistical challenges threaten to overshadow the electoral process. Whether the convention will mark a unifying moment for the party or deepen its divisions remains uncertain, with political observers and members alike watching closely.
Inspired Source: Punch