PDP begins sale of nomination forms, reaffirms zoning ahead of convention

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has commenced the sale of nomination forms in preparation for its national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30.

The decision was confirmed on Monday at the party’s 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, where leaders reviewed readiness for the convention and reaffirmed the zoning arrangement for national elective positions.

In a communiqué signed by Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Working Committee, Abdulrahman Mohammed, and Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, the party directed all aspirants to strictly adhere to guidelines and timelines.

NEC emphasized that zoning would guide the distribution of offices to ensure balance and inclusivity. Committees were also tasked with delivering a smooth convention under the theme, “A convention of inclusiveness, unity and renewal.”

The meeting comes amid efforts to stabilise the party after a prolonged leadership crisis. Although the November 2025 Ibadan convention produced Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as national chairman, a faction loyal to Wike later instituted a 13-member caretaker committee led by Mohammed and Anyanwu.

Mohammed told party leaders that recent congresses across the states and zones were successful, noting improvements in unity despite lingering tensions.

“We have made significant progress in stabilising our structures. There is no victor and no vanquished—only a shared commitment to rebuild our party,” he said, adding that recent court rulings were handled with “reconciliation and inclusiveness.”

He urged party members to prioritise unity as the convention approaches, stressing that national attention is focused on the PDP’s ability to manage its internal affairs.

Mohammed also commended individuals who contributed to reconciliation efforts, including convention planning committee chairman, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Wike, whom he described as a “stabilising influence.”

Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Mao Ohuabunwa, cautioned members to approach the convention period with responsibility and highlighted the importance of ongoing electronic registration of members.

“E-registration reflects our commitment to transparency and modernisation. A credible membership register is the foundation of any serious political organisation,” he said.

Ohuabunwa also urged fairness and unity in adopting zoning recommendations, noting that the party’s strength lies in its ability to manage differences.

“Nigeria is watching. The expectations are high. We must not disappoint,” he added.

The PDP leadership expressed confidence that the upcoming convention will redefine the party’s direction and reinforce its position as a credible alternative in Nigeria’s political landscape.