The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Neysom Wike, former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and Vice President, Kashim Shettima, attended the 65th birthday celebration of Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, in Lagos on Saturday. The event brought together family, friends, and several dignitaries to mark the occasion.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Saraki expressed his pleasure at joining Fayose and other notable figures to celebrate his birthday. The celebration coincided with the Peoples Democratic Party’s National Elective Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The convention is proceeding despite a court case filed by Wike’s faction to halt the event. The Umar Damagum-led faction, however, has chosen to continue with the convention. Meanwhile, the party has announced the expulsion of Wike, Fayose, and other senior members due to alleged anti-party activities.
The simultaneous events highlight the current divisions within the party. The expulsions and the ongoing court case reflect the deepening internal conflicts. The party’s National Elective Convention aims to address these issues and chart a new course.
The attendance of high-profile figures like Saraki and Shettima at Fayose’s birthday celebration underscores the complexities of Nigerian politics, where personal relationships and alliances can sometimes transcend party affiliations. As the party navigates its internal challenges, the outcomes of the convention and the court case will be closely watched.
The developments within the party come at a critical time for Nigerian politics, with various factions and interest groups maneuvering for position. The ability of the party to resolve its internal disputes and present a united front will be crucial in the face of upcoming political challenges. For now, the focus remains on the ongoing convention and the legal proceedings, as the party seeks to redefine its trajectory and address the concerns of its members.