Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to suspend its planned national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, citing ongoing legal disputes and political instability within the party.
Saraki made the appeal in a statement posted on his official X (Twitter) account on Wednesday night, following a meeting with the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) Reconciliation Committee, led by Ambassador Hassan Adamu, at his residence in Abuja.
Describing the discussions as “meaningful and incisive,” the former Kwara State governor said the meeting focused on issues threatening the party’s unity and long-term stability.
Saraki lamented that despite the “selfless and arduous efforts” of some leaders to reconcile factions, the planned convention has become mired in legal and political controversies, which, he warned, could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.
“As it stands, there is no assurance that the conduct and outcome of the convention will stand,” Saraki said. “Political matters are best resolved internally, not through endless litigation. Legal battles will only deepen divisions.”
The former Senate President urged the BoT to immediately recommend the formation of a Caretaker Committee to manage party affairs and restore members’ confidence.
“The only viable path now is to set up a Caretaker Committee within the next two days. This will promote reconciliation and stability while reassuring those seeking to contest elections under the PDP platform,” he added.
Saraki cautioned that proceeding with the convention under the current circumstances could worsen the crisis, warning that candidates risk having their nominations invalidated.
“Going ahead with the convention in Ibadan will be a waste of effort. It does not have my support,” he concluded.
Recent weeks have seen the PDP plunged deeper into turmoil following suspensions and counter-suspensions among top officials. The National Working Committee (NWC), led by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, suspended National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu and others over alleged anti-party activities.
In retaliation, Anyanwu’s faction declared the suspensions illegal and announced the removal of Damagum and several NWC members.
Adding to the confusion, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued an order halting the convention over procedural irregularities — a decision the party leadership has dismissed, insisting the court lacks jurisdiction.