PDP National Convention Kicks Off Amid High-Profile Arrivals in Ibadan

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday commenced its long-awaited national convention at the Adamasingba Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State, with key party leaders and governors in attendance. The event is set to elect members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).

Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State, was among the first high-profile figures to arrive. He was joined by Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, and PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum.

Other notable attendees included Ladi Adebutu, PDP gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State in 2023; Natasha Akpoti, Senator representing Kogi Central; Babangida Aliyu, former Governor of Niger; and Kabiru Turaki, former Minister and consensus candidate for National Chairman.

Veteran politicians such as Ibrahim Shekarau, former Governor of Kano, Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, and Bode George, BoT member, were also present.

However, some expected governors, including Ademola Adeleke of Osun and Agbu Kefas of Taraba, were yet to arrive as of the start of the proceedings around 3:45 pm, when Damagum delivered the opening remarks.

The convention has faced several legal challenges, with different party factions securing conflicting court rulings in recent weeks. In August, the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) announced that the party’s presidential ticket would be zoned to the South, while the tradition dictates that the National Chairman comes from the North.

The convention is seen as a crucial step for the PDP to consolidate its leadership structure ahead of upcoming elections.