A deepening rift within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) threatens its upcoming national convention, scheduled for November 15-16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, as National Chairman Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu issued conflicting directives to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding state congresses in Cross River, Plateau, and Kebbi.
On September 25, 2025, Damagum informed INEC that the congresses, set for September 27, were postponed due to “unforeseen circumstances and operational logistic challenges,” stating the decision came from the National Working Committee (NWC). A day later, on September 26, Anyanwu, who was absent from the NWC meeting, countered with a letter insisting the congresses would proceed as planned and urged INEC to ignore Damagum’s directive. Citing the Electoral Act and PDP constitution, Anyanwu argued that only communications signed by both the chairman and secretary are valid.
The dispute, driven by competing factions battling for control of state leadership and delegate votes, could lead to legal challenges that jeopardize the convention’s outcome or delay the party’s preparations for the 2027 elections, according to a PDP federal lawmaker.
Meanwhile, the National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC) indefinitely extended the deadline for submitting expression of interest and nomination forms, previously set for September 26, and postponed aspirant screening from September 30. Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba said the extensions aim to streamline preparations, with new dates to be announced soon.
