Wike Dismisses Turaki Faction's Supreme Court Appeal, Confident in PDP Convention
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has firmly dismissed the appeal lodged at the Supreme Court by the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He insists that this legal challenge poses no threat to the party's forthcoming National Convention, scheduled for March 29 and 30 in Abuja.
Speaking after inspecting the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome, the venue for the convention, Wike declared that the PDP would surprise Nigerians in the 2027 general elections. He expressed strong confidence in the party's capacity to reassert its political dominance and rebuild public trust.
Convention Preparations and Reconciliation Efforts
Wike maintained that preparations for the convention are on course and nearing completion, with readiness estimated at about 95 percent. He stressed that reconciliation efforts within the party would not halt the convention, noting that such processes are continuous and will persist even after the gathering.
"The convention will go on as planned. Reconciliation is a continuous process. It does not stop because you are holding a convention. After the convention, we will continue to engage those who feel aggrieved," he stated.
Dismissing concerns over the Supreme Court appeal, Wike described it as inconsequential to the party's plans. "The appeal has no effect on the convention. We are focused on what is important, which is strengthening the party and preparing for the future," he added.
Party Unity and Zoning Arrangements
Accompanied by key party leaders, including Chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, and Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, Wike emphasized that the PDP remains united despite internal disagreements. He highlighted that the party, as a large political platform, naturally accommodates diverse interests, with disagreements being inevitable but manageable.
"There is room for accommodation. The PDP is a very large party. The umbrella is wide enough to accommodate everyone. In any organisation, there will be grievances. What is important is how you manage them in the overall interest of the party," he explained.
On zoning, Wike disclosed that the party has already reached a consensus on the distribution of key positions across regions. "We have zoned our positions. The presidency has been zoned to the South, while the chairmanship is zoned to the North. This arrangement will make the process smoother and more acceptable to all," he noted.
He further observed that, unlike in the past, the party is presenting a more cohesive front ahead of the convention. "For the first time, we are not talking about a so-called unity list that reflects divisions. Everyone has agreed on the direction we are taking. There are no factions," he added.
Logistical Readiness and Electoral Prospects
Assessing the level of preparedness, Wike expressed satisfaction with ongoing arrangements, stating that seating arrangements for all states have been concluded and the VIP section is ready. He estimated that no more than 2,500 delegates are expected to attend.
Reiterating his optimism about the party's prospects, the Minister asserted that the PDP would use the 2027 elections to demonstrate its strength and reconnect with Nigerians. "The PDP will shock Nigerians in 2027. We are working towards rebuilding confidence and ensuring that the party returns stronger," he emphasized.
The convention is anticipated to bring together delegates and stakeholders from across the country as the party seeks to consolidate its structures ahead of future electoral contests, marking a critical step in its strategic planning for the upcoming political cycle.
