Tension has emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party as its caretaker leadership dismissed reports of any legal barrier to its planned national convention.
Speaking in Abuja, members of the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led caretaker committee said they had not received any court order stopping the convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026.
Addressing journalists on Saturday, the committee’s publicity secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, stated that the party was fully prepared to proceed with the exercise.
He explained further that all legal and internal requirements had been met, assuring party members of a credible and transparent process.
According to the committee, extensive preparations had been made to ensure a peaceful and inclusive convention that reflects the interest of members nationwide.
The spokesperson added that the party remains committed to due process and the rule of law in all its activities.
On internal disagreements, the committee cautioned individuals against attempts to disrupt the process, urging members to remain calm.
He maintained also that the party’s reconciliation efforts were still ongoing, although it would not allow its progress to be hindered.
Meanwhile another faction, led by Tanimu Turaki, had earlier approached the court to challenge the validity of the Ibadan convention and sought to halt the upcoming exercise.
Members of that group also confirmed filing an appeal against the judgment of the Court of Appeal on the matter.
In a related development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, affirmed that the convention would go ahead as planned.
Wike, who spoke after inspecting the venue at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome, said reconciliation among aggrieved members would continue after the convention.
The minister insisted that the appeal filed by the Turaki group would not affect the planned gathering.
He noted further that internal disagreements are normal in a large political party and assured that efforts would be made to address concerns raised by dissatisfied members.
On zoning arrangement, Wike disclosed that key positions had already been shared among regions to ensure balance within the party.
He confirmed also that the presidency slot has been zoned to the South, while the national chairmanship is reserved for the North.
Speaking on readiness, the minister said the party had completed most arrangements and was close to full preparedness for the event.
He added further that about 2,500 delegates are expected, with seating and logistics already put in place.
The minister expressed confidence that the party would present a united front and surprise Nigerians in the 2027 general elections.
The PDP has been facing internal leadership disputes and factional challenges since after the 2023 elections, with disagreements over conventions, zoning and control of party structures. These divisions have led to multiple court cases and reconciliation efforts as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.
