The national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party organised by the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led caretaker committee has officially commenced at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
Delegates from across the country were seen arriving early on Sunday, many dressed in party-branded uniforms and seated inside the velodrome, while others underwent accreditation and security screening at designated entry points.
The venue was visibly decorated in the party’s colours, with its signature umbrella symbol prominently displayed across the stadium.
Speaking during a live interview, the Chairman of the convention planning committee and former Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, revealed that a total of 2,503 delegates from various states are expected to participate in the exercise.
The convention, scheduled to run from Sunday through Monday, is aimed at electing party officials who will lead the opposition party’s affairs as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
The National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC), which is backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had earlier dismissed reports of any court order halting the convention.
According to the committee’s spokesperson, Jungudo Mohammed, the party is fully prepared to proceed, having met all legal and constitutional requirements.
“The National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) has worked tirelessly to ensure that this convention is not only credible and transparent but also inclusive and reflective of the collective aspirations of our members across the country. All necessary arrangements have been concluded to guarantee a smooth, peaceful, and successful exercise.
“The PDP remains a law-abiding institution, committed to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
“On recent developments, including attempts by certain individuals to disrupt this process, we urge all members to remain calm and focused. The party has consistently extended the hand of reconciliation, and that door remains open. However, we will not allow the progress and stability of our great party to be undermined,” Mohammed said.
The convention is taking place against the backdrop of an ongoing leadership crisis within the party, with competing factions laying claim to its structure and direction.
What you should know
The ongoing convention of the Peoples Democratic Party is a crucial event that could shape the party’s future ahead of the 2027 elections.
Organised by a faction led by Abdulrahman Mohammed and backed by Nyesom Wike, the exercise is aimed at establishing a new leadership structure despite internal disputes and legal concerns.
With over 2,500 delegates participating, the outcome will influence party unity, strategy, and its ability to function as a strong opposition force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
