The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has scheduled its Elective National Convention for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of its broader strategy to reposition the party for the 2027 general elections.
The decision was one of the key outcomes of the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja.
Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum presided over the meeting, where the party’s leadership expressed renewed unity and confidence, declaring the PDP “stronger and more united” following recent reconciliation efforts.
Damagum took a swipe at the opposition coalition that recently emerged, describing it as an “ill-fated venture” that has already begun to unravel. “Some persons have recently learned the hard way that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush,” he said. “Many who jumped on the coalition bandwagon have already returned to our fold. Some even claimed they never left.”
He noted that several individuals from other parties who had briefly aligned with the coalition have also retraced their steps, reaffirming the PDP’s status as a stable national platform.
In line with preparations for 2027, the NEC approved a full timetable for the convention and directed Damagum and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu to formally notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as required by the Electoral Act.
NEC also ratified the composition of both the National Convention Committee and the Zoning Committee to ensure transparency and credibility in the process.
Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, praised the National Working Committee (NWC) for its flexibility, including its willingness to make personal sacrifices for party unity. He also urged members to put party interests above personal ambitions and welcomed defectors who left out of impatience.
“We sympathise with those who became impatient and left,” Mohammed said. “Certainly, they will come to understand. We are keeping the door open for them to return.”
However, he warned against acts of indiscipline, saying such behavior was at the root of past challenges within the party.
Former Senate President and Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Adolphus Wabara, stressed that a credible and unifying convention would determine the PDP’s chances in 2027. “If we get it right, many will return,” he said. “This NEC meeting is a constitutionally recognised event whose outcome will shape the political terrain.”
Former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi also weighed in, urging members to show restraint in public commentary and avoid statements that could damage the party’s image. “Let us not de-market the party or express personal opinions as though they were party positions,” he warned.
The NEC reaffirmed PDP’s commitment to democratic values and restated its determination to lead Nigeria toward a new era of good governance. The next NEC meeting is scheduled for August 25, 2025.
