The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership, supported by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, on Monday declared that the party has regained stability after weeks of internal disputes and legal wrangling, as it prepares for its national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30.
Speaking at the party’s 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Chairman of the National Caretaker Working Committee, Abdulrahman Mohammed, said recent state and zonal congresses were largely successful, though he acknowledged lingering tensions within the party.
“We have made significant progress in stabilising our structures and restoring confidence in our party. There is no victor and no vanquished—only a shared commitment to rebuild, reposition, and strengthen our party,” Mohammed said.
The meeting comes after months of factional disagreements and court disputes that have tested the PDP’s cohesion. Mohammed noted that recent court rulings were handled “with a spirit of reconciliation and inclusiveness,” urging members to move beyond divisions.
“Our party remains open to constructive engagement, dialogue, and reconciliation,” he added.
The NEC gathering is particularly significant as it precedes the national convention, a key event expected to shape the party’s leadership and strategic direction ahead of future elections.
Mohammed described the convention as “a critical milestone that will shape the future direction of our party,” and called on members to prioritise the collective interest over personal ambitions.
“As we approach the National Convention, I urge all stakeholders to place the collective interest of the party above personal ambitions. The eyes of the nation are upon us,” he said.
Mohammed also commended party figures for their roles in negotiations and organisational efforts, highlighting former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, who chairs the convention planning committee, and Wike, describing him as a stabilising force.
“His commitment to the ideals of the PDP, even in challenging times, stands as a testament to true leadership,” Mohammed said of Wike.
Despite the conciliatory tone, the NEC meeting underscored the delicate balance the party must maintain in unifying competing interests ahead of the convention.
Mohammed insisted that the PDP remains “a formidable political force and a credible alternative for governance in Nigeria,” while emphasising that unity is essential to sustaining that position.
“What is required of us at this moment is unity of purpose, clarity of vision, and commitment to the ideals that bind us together,” he said.
Also addressing the NEC, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Mao Ohuabunwa, described the period as crucial for the party’s future and urged caution and collective responsibility.
He commended party members for successfully conducting ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses, noting that these efforts demonstrated the PDP’s dedication to democratic principles.
Ohuabunwa highlighted the ongoing electronic registration (e-registration) of members as a significant step toward modernisation, transparency, and credibility.
“A credible membership register is the foundation of any serious political organisation. It strengthens internal democracy, enhances planning, and builds confidence among members and stakeholders.
I therefore encourage all members across the federation to embrace this process and ensure its success,” he said.
On the issue of zoning, Ohuabunwa called for fairness and unity, urging party leaders to consider recommendations with equity and the party’s collective interest in mind.
READ ALSO: Wike Declares End of Party Politics in Rivers, Unveils Coalition Backing Tinubu
“No arrangement is perfect, but what is most important is our collective willingness to accommodate one another for the greater good of the Party,” he said.
He added that the PDP’s strength lies in its ability to manage differences while remaining united. “Distinguished members, the strength of the PDP has never been in uniformity of opinion, but in our ability to manage our differences and emerge stronger as one united family.
Let us therefore rise above personal preferences and sectional interests, and focus on what will preserve the stability, cohesion, and progress of our Party. Nigeria is watching. Our members are watching. The expectations are high. We must not disappoint,” he said.
The NEC meeting comes after a prolonged leadership crisis that began in November 2025. Governors supporting the Ibadan convention of November 15, which produced Kabiru Turaki and the National Working Committee for a four-year term, had handed over leadership from former Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum to Turaki before Damagum’s tenure ended on December 9.
However, a faction loyal to Wike formed a 13-member Caretaker Committee, naming Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Acting National Secretary, with a 60-day mandate.
Attempts by both factions to hold meetings at the PDP National Secretariat on November 18 descended into chaos, forcing the Nigeria Police Force to seal the premises.
The legal battles culminated in a February 12 Court of Appeal hearing. On March 9, the court nullified the Ibadan convention, ruling it violated the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and the party’s constitution.
Despite this turbulent period, the NEC meeting signalled a renewed commitment to party unity and preparation for the upcoming convention, which party leaders say will define the PDP’s future direction.