A group of prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria, loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, has called for the party’s National Chairman to remain in the North-Central region. This demand was made during a meeting in Abuja on Monday night, under the platform of Eminent Leaders and Concerned Stakeholders of the PDP.
The group, which includes former governors and lawmakers, also requested fresh congresses in the South-East, specifically in Ebonyi and Anambra States, as well as local government congresses in Ekiti State. They emphasized the need for the party to uphold fairness and respect judicial decisions ahead of its national convention.
According to a communique read by former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, the party must adhere to principles of equity, justice, inclusivity, and the rule of law. The leaders reiterated that party leadership positions should be open, inclusive, and competitive, while maintaining regional balance.
They noted that the party is at a critical point where its ability to resolve disputes and uphold fairness will determine its future relevance. The communique stressed that unity cannot be achieved through exclusion or disregard for valid court rulings, and that the national convention must be anchored on transparency, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.
The group called on the National Working Committee to conduct fresh and inclusive congresses in Ebonyi and Anambra States, as directed by the courts. They also demanded that the outcome of the South-South Congress held in Calabar, which has already been recognized by the court, be respected.
The leaders warned that ignoring their resolutions and demands could render any planned national convention invalid, as it would amount to disenfranchising genuine party members. They emphasized that the PDP was founded on inclusivity, fairness, and justice, and must now set aside narrow interests and embrace collective responsibility to reclaim its position as the leading opposition and a credible alternative for Nigerians.
The meeting was attended by several prominent PDP members, including Wike, PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, and former governors Okezie Ikpeazu, Ayo Fayose, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. The group remains steadfast in its loyalty to the party and resolute in its determination to work towards a united and just PDP.
