PDP convention triggers renewed internal tensions as Saraki advocates unity and INEC recognition, while factions clash over leadership, court cases, and 2027 election readiness
The recent national conventions of the All Progressives Congress and the People’s Democratic Party have intensified internal political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general election, with the PDP convention drawing significant attention amid ongoing leadership tensions and factional disputes.
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Held at the Velodrome of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, the PDP convention attracted political observers, analysts, and youths actively engaging in debates across social media platforms.
A key point of interest was the presence of prominent figures previously perceived as opposed to the influence of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, including former governors Sule Lamido and Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, as well as former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki.
The convention proceeded despite threats of legal action from a faction led by Governors Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, alongside members of the previously elected National Working Committee (NWC).
Their earlier convention in Ibadan had been nullified by the courts, yet the group attempted to challenge the legitimacy of the latest gathering at the Supreme Court.
Another faction, led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, has also approached the apex court seeking to overturn prior judicial rulings.
Despite these disputes, organisers proceeded with the convention, largely guided by the urgency of meeting Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadlines for party registration and candidate nomination ahead of the 2027 elections.
At the centre of the reconciliation push is Bukola Saraki, who has been actively engaging stakeholders across factions.
Saraki has consistently argued that the priority for the PDP should be securing a legally recognised leadership structure capable of presenting candidates for the upcoming elections, rather than prolonging internal disputes.
He has maintained that compliance with INEC requirements including submission of a valid membership register and recognition of party leadership is essential for electoral participation.
Saraki has urged all factions to adopt a “spirit of give-and-take” to ensure the party remains viable and present on the ballot.
According to him, the survival of the PDP depends on unity, legal compliance, and timely resolution of disputes, warning that unresolved crises could jeopardize the party’s ability to field candidates in 2027.
He has also been advocating for reconciliation efforts that would bring aggrieved members back into the party structure.
Sources close to Saraki suggest that his push is driven by the belief that the PDP remains the only opposition party with the national structure, recognition, and electoral strength capable of challenging the dominance of the ruling APC.
His supporters, particularly in Kwara State, reportedly share this view and are keen on maintaining the PDP as their primary political platform.
Saraki has also emphasized the importance of grassroots mobilisation, credible primaries, and internal reforms that ensure inclusivity and stability.
He has encouraged party leaders to focus on rebuilding trust, strengthening membership, and preparing for competitive elections across all levels.
Following the convention, the newly elected PDP leadership, now reflected on INEC’s portal, is expected to prioritise reconciliation and legal consolidation.
There are indications that the new National Working Committee may move to withdraw ongoing court cases filed in the party’s name, in a bid to unify the organisation.
Observers note that the convention marks a critical turning point for the PDP as it attempts to reposition itself ahead of 2027.
While internal divisions persist, the presence of INEC officials and the formal recognition of the new leadership signal progress toward stabilising the party structure.
Saraki’s broader argument is that a revitalised PDP could regain lost ground in several states and potentially attract defectors from other parties, including the APC.
He believes that if the party successfully implements reconciliation, strengthens its internal processes, and maintains legal compliance, it could re-emerge as a formidable political force.
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As the countdown to the 2027 elections continues, the PDP faces the dual challenge of resolving internal conflicts while building a cohesive platform capable of competing effectively against the APC and other emerging political alternatives.
