The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a deepening internal crisis, with a faction supported by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, now planning to hold its own national convention. This move is in direct opposition to a convention held by a rival faction backed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on November 16 in Ibadan.
BoT Convenes Crucial Meeting in Abuja
Ahead of the proposed convention, the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP, led by Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, held a crucial meeting on Sunday, December 7, 2025. The gathering took place at the Life Camp official residence of the FCT Minister in Abuja.
The meeting attracted a full house of prominent party figures, demonstrating the high stakes involved. Attendees included:
- PDP National Chairman, Abdul-Rahman Mohammed
- National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu
- Former FCT Senator, Philip Tanimu Aduda
- Former Abia State Governor and ambassador-designate, Okezie Ikpeazu
- Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister
Also present were members of the National Working Committee (NWC), state chairmen, and National Assembly members.
Commitment to Stabilise and Rebuild Trust
In his opening address, BoT Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, reaffirmed the body's commitment to stabilising the party and rebuilding trust among its members. He stated that a primary focus is to ensure congresses are conducted in states where they remain outstanding.
Ohuabunwa emphasized that the BoT, acting as the conscience of the party, is determined to work with the NWC to ensure all actions follow due process, party guidelines, and the Electoral Act.
"We are going to work with this NWC, encourage them and support them to ensure that the right things are done," he declared. He noted that meaningful progress was being made in reorganising affected states, including setting up credible caretaker committees to prepare for transparent congresses and the subsequent national convention.
Preparing for a Rival Convention and Next Steps
The ongoing reforms, according to Ohuabunwa, aim to rebuild trust, strengthen internal structures, and reinforce the PDP's standing as a disciplined, democratic institution. He called for unity of purpose, urging members to rise above sentiments and commit to ongoing reforms.
"Our responsibility is to safeguard the soul of the party, steer it away from divisive tendencies, and reinforce the values that have historically set the PDP apart," the BoT Chairman stressed.
The BoT meeting was expected to be followed by a session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) later on Sunday night. This NEC meeting was poised to take key decisions regarding the pending state congresses and the proposed rival national convention being planned by the Wike-backed faction.
This development signals a significant escalation in the PDP's internal conflict, setting the stage for a potential showdown between the two major factions led by influential figures Nyesom Wike and Seyi Makinde.
