The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has reaffirmed its commitment to holding the party’s national convention in November, declaring that the exercise will go ahead as scheduled despite opposition from a faction led by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Wike’s group, under the banner of Eminent Leaders and Concerned Stakeholders, had issued a list of conditions for its support of the convention. These included fresh congresses in Ebonyi and Anambra states, as well as the recognition of a south-south congress recently conducted in Calabar, Cross River State.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at the inauguration of the National Convention Planning Committee, Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, said the party would not succumb to intimidation or arrogance.
“We are not afraid of anybody. We are capable of steering this party beyond the shenanigans, arrogance, and impunity of others,” Mohammed said.
“Enough is enough. We will no longer allow ourselves to be taken for granted. Our responsibility is to protect this party, and we are determined to do just that.”
He also pledged the governors’ support for the acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, to complete his tenure and oversee the convention. According to him, the forum has confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide credible oversight.
In his remarks, Damagum noted that since assuming office, he had worked tirelessly to stabilize the party, reconcile aggrieved members, and maintain the PDP’s role as the main opposition voice in Nigeria.
“Many of those attacking the leadership are individuals who have benefited immensely from the PDP. Yet, history will judge us fairly because, in difficult times, this National Working Committee has held the line,” Damagum said.
“The PDP is not broken, it is not defeated. The PDP is moving forward, stronger, united and more determined to reclaim the presidency and rebuild Nigeria.”
The PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), represented by Deputy Chairman Ahmed Makarfi on behalf of Adolphus Wabara, also urged inclusiveness in the convention process.
Meanwhile, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, who chairs the convention planning committee, assured that the exercise would be transparent, credible, and in line with the party’s constitution.
“We understand the expectations. We will bring our experience to bear and ensure that Ibadan hosts a convention that strengthens the PDP and restores the confidence of our members,” Fintiri stated.
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