A prominent faction of Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has endorsed the ongoing electronic registration of members as a critical modernization effort to strengthen the party’s internal structures.
Mao Ohuabunwa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the faction led by former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, made the remarks during the 107th meeting of the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC). He described the e-registration initiative as a “major step in the right direction,” reflecting a commitment to modernization, transparency, and credibility in party management.
Ohuabunwa emphasized that a credible and verified membership register is fundamental for any serious political organization. He explained that accurate data strengthens internal democracy, improves strategic planning, and builds trust among party members and external stakeholders. The BoT chairman therefore called on all PDP members nationwide to actively participate in and support the digital registration process to ensure its success.
He linked the registration drive to the party’s near-term future, stating that decisions made now would shape both the forthcoming National Convention and the party’s overall direction. Urging unity, he advised members to approach all matters with “a spirit of give and take.”
The discussion also touched on the contentious issue of zoning, which is expected to be presented to the NEC soon by the party’s Zoning Committee. Ohuabunwa appealed for members to receive the committee’s recommendations with an open mind, guided by principles of equity, justice, and national unity. He acknowledged that no zoning arrangement is perfect but stressed that collective willingness to accommodate one another is essential for the party’s greater good.
These developments occur within a context of internal dynamics within the PDP, following the 2023 general elections and ongoing efforts to reconcile competing factions. The push for e-registration is seen as a technical measure to prevent manipulation and foster a more transparent membership system, while the zoning debate addresses the party’s power-sharing formula for future elections.
The outcome of both the e-registration and zoning committee recommendations is anticipated to significantly influence the PDP’s cohesion and strategy ahead of its National Convention, with broader implications for Nigeria’s opposition landscape.
