The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria is confronting a crisis after its Board of Trustees (BoT) rejected the reconciliation committee’s report, which was intended to resolve internal disputes and secure a peaceful national convention in 2025. George Turnah, the party’s secretary for the South‑South Zone, described the BoT’s refusal as an act of impunity.
Although a court order has halted the scheduled national convention, a faction of the party is proceeding with the event, which Turnah labeled illegal. He accused the party’s leadership of ignoring both the court’s judgment and the directives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The gathering is slated for Lekan Salami Stadium, and preparations are already underway, but Turnah stressed that it does not constitute a legitimate PDP convention. While the Oyo State Governor may host gatherings, a proper party convention requires adherence to established procedures.
Turnah expressed concern over the leadership’s disregard for the rule of law, citing the exclusion of founding member Sule Lamido from party processes and a lack of transparency in the lead‑up to the convention. He noted that customary practices—such as the sale of forms and organized campaigning—were bypassed.
The internal crisis has significant implications for the PDP’s future and its ability to hold a successful national convention. To ensure a peaceful and legitimate gathering, the party’s leadership must address these internal issues and follow proper procedures. The rejection of the reconciliation report and the flouting of the court order have raised doubts about the party’s commitment to the rule of law and its capacity to govern effectively. Nigerians and the international community are closely watching the PDP’s next steps to resolve the crisis.
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