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Post-NEC meetings: APC, PDP set stage for epic 2027 face-off

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•New APC chair, Yilwatda, vows Tinubu’s return

•Makinde, Bala lead PDP govs in 2027 power takeover plot

Less than two years to the next general election, the ruling All Progressives Congress and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party are already locking horns in what promises to be a fierce battle for the nation’s top political prize in 2027.

Both parties held their National Executive Committee meetings in Abuja on Thursday and unveiled strategic steps ahead of the election.

Both parties also announced new leadership strategies to win over the electorate.

While the APC aims to consolidate its grip on power, the PDP is positioning itself as a force to reclaim the Presidency.

On Thursday, the National Executive Committee of the APC named the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Yilwatda Nentawe, as substantive chairman of the party.

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who heads the Progressive Governors’ Forum, announced the motion for Yilwatda’s nomination as party chairman.

Governor Uzodinma said, “It will be a thing of joy for me to take advantage of this moment to drive this motion, that I, Senator Hope Uzodima, the Governor of Imo State and Chairman Progressives Governors Forum that I want to humbly move the motion that the National Executive Committee approve the Office of the National Chairman of the APC to be zoned back to the North Central from the North East where it is now, to the North Central geopolitical zone and that the office of the National Legal Adviser of the APC from the North Central where it is now back to North West geopolitical zone.

“That the Office of the Deputy National Secretary of the APC, already zoned to Northcentral, that Professor Yilwatda Yilwatda from Plateau State North Central Zone be nominated and elected as the National chairman of the APC.”

He added, “That the current National Legal Adviser, Professor Karim Kana shall now be the National Deputy Secretary of the APC. And Barrister Murtala…From Katsina State in the north west be nominated and elected as the National Legal Adviser of the APC.

“Due to the compressed political activities going on in the party, that the tenure of the ward executives and local government executives be extended to December 31, 2025.”

The motion was seconded by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. Yilwatda was then elected after a yay-or-nay vote.

His emergence as the party chair is seen as part of the APC’s strategic plan to prepare for the 2027 election.

Yilwatda, 56, is an engineer, academic, and former governorship candidate of the APC in Plateau State during the 2023 general elections.

His emergence as the seventh APC National Chairman follows the resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down in June, citing health concerns.

Tinubu’s return

Speaking after he was sworn, Nentawe pledged to unify and grow the ruling party as he formally assumed leadership of the party.

He expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, APC governors, members of the National Assembly, and all stakeholders for entrusting him with what he called a “big burden” at a critical political juncture.

“I pledge without hesitation that I will work with everybody in the party, unite the party, build the party, expand the party with you as the focus,” Yilwatda said during his acceptance remarks at the emergency NEC meeting held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

“Let me express my profound gratitude to God and the leadership of the party, from the President, to the governors, and the National Assembly members, all members of NEC, for reposing this big burden and trust also in me to lead the party at this juncture.

“Let me thank you also for picking me among millions of members of this party, and that the party will see me good enough and responsible enough to take this party to the next level,” he said.

In outlining his core agenda, Yilwatda, who will step down from his role as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, called for the support and cooperation of party members.

He promised an inclusive and cooperative style of leadership focused on internal unity, grassroots expansion, and renewed public trust.

After being sworn in by Oghenovo Otemu, Head of Chambers at OGHENOVO O. OTEMU CHAMBERS, he committed to engaging all members of the party as essential stakeholders in its forward journey.

“I do not take this mandate for granted. I want to accept it with gratitude and with my full heart and with my full mind to work together with you, to build the party knowing that all of us here are the mechanics of the party and the party is our vehicle and we are to fix it and move it to our destination of choice,” he stated.

Yilwatda further underscored the importance of working hand-in-hand with party members, saying, “I will work with everybody in the party…and the support I will require to drive the party as needed by all of us so that we can fulfil the dream of Nigerians who have reposed their hope in the renewed hope agenda.”

The new APC chairman closed his speech with a reaffirmation of his commitment to serve with trust and accountability.

He appealed for continued support from the party’s leadership and rank-and-file membership to achieve the goals of the Renewed Hope agenda.

“Lastly, I will trust and look up to the leadership of the party, members of the party, and all of you seated here for us to fulfil the dreams that Nigerians have of APC.”

Upon his assumption of duty at the APC Secretariat, the newly elected chairman pledged to transform the ruling party into a source of national pride and celebration.

He expressed confidence that under his leadership, more governors, senators, and key opposition figures would be drawn into the APC, declaring that the 2027 general election “is a done deal for APC.”

Yilwatda likened the National Working Committee to a team of mechanics and the party itself to a vehicle that requires fixing. He appealed for unity among the party’s leadership and members.

According to him, “All of us here, especially the National Working Committee, we are the mechanics, the party is a vehicle, we will fix it. We will drive it, we will work it out and ensure that we get the destination of our choice.

“Its our collective effort and I’m sure by the time we put our hands on the deck collectively, this party will be great, this party will be the joy and the pride and the bright of the entire nation and that’s what I look forward to this party becoming under our collective leadership.”*

Expressing gratitude to Nigerians for their support of the APC, Yilwatda stated that the ruling party had already secured victory in the 2027 election.

He added, “I appreciate Nigerians supporting APC, standing by APC, our doors are open to welcome new members. Our doors are open, we look forward to having more governors, more senators, more National Assembly members, more local government chairmen and more members into our party.

“We will expand beyond bounds. I’m sure by God’s grace, I’m sure the 2027 is a done deal for APC.”

In a related development, the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said in a statement on Thursday that Yilwatda’s extensive experience would contribute to repositioning the party.

The statement read in part, “A prolific academic and governorship candidate of the APC in the 2023 gubernatorial election in Plateau State, Prof. Yilwatda was the serving Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development until his emergence as National Chairman.

“Professor Yilwatda brings a wealth of administrative, technical and political experience to his new assignment, having served as former Director of Information and Communication Technology, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and Resident Electoral Commissioner, Benue State between 2017 and 2021, and Director-General of the Plateau State Tinubu-Shettima Campaign Organisation in the 2023 general election.

“We welcome and congratulate our National Chairman on his election, and pray God, in His mercies, to grant him wisdom and grace to lead our great Party to greater heights.”

Nigerians complaining – Tinubu

In his remarks, President Tinubu emphasised the need for increased community engagement and greater responsiveness to citizens’ concerns.

“Nigerians are still complaining at the grassroots,” the President stated, adding, “To you, the governors, you must wet the grass more and deliver progressive change to Nigerians. May God bless our democracy and grant us more fertile lands.

“To those working with me to achieve food sovereignty for our country, we will continue to work hard for you, Nigerians, and to listen to everyone to achieve the national goals,” he noted.

The President reiterated the APC’s inclusive posture and affirmed that the party remains open to new members and fresh ideas.

He dismissed the opposition as “a coalition of confusion” and urged progressive-minded Nigerians to join the APC and participate in its developmental agenda.

“Our doors are still open, and we should wholeheartedly embrace those who join us,” he said.

President Tinubu emphasised that the party’s strength lied in expanding its ranks and encouraged the new National Chairman to establish a committee of National Working Committee members to visit states, ensuring that all new members are seamlessly registered and integrated.

The President thanked Ganduje for his contributions to party development and ideological clarity.

“I gave him an assignment on forming a progressive doctrine and a progressive institute. I believe the National Secretary will help revitalise and coordinate this effort,” the President said.

Turning to the governors, the President urged them to work collectively to leave behind a lasting legacy, including building a party secretariat in Abuja.

“We should leave a legacy of development. The governors are here —23 of them — to help identify a land, along with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. We should establish a committee of progressive governors to identify suitable land and construct the secretariat,” he said.

President Tinubu acknowledged economic challenges but affirmed that progress has been made under his administration. He cited the record N14.9tn in revenue collected by the Federal Inland Revenue Service in the first six months of the year, a 43 per cent increase from the amount collected in 2024.

“It is not easy to navigate the stormy waters of economic instability. Now, the economy is stabilised—there is no fear for the country except for continued upward movement and sustained growth. I can assure you,” he stated.

Regarding security, the President noted that significant efforts have been made to restore safety across Nigeria.

“Thousands of terrorists and bandits have been neutralised. You can see that fear is decreasing. However, we must remain vigilant and take the matter seriously. We must invest more in our people, be accommodating, and remain committed to ensuring national security.”

President Tinubu welcomed new entrants into the APC, including Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, and other key political figures.

The meeting observed a minute’s silence in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

At the President’s request, the meeting also observed a minute of silence in honour of Alhaji Aminu Dantata and Oba Sikiru Adetona (the Awujale of Ijebuland), who both passed away recently.

The President noted that although the two late statesmen were not party members, “their lives and contributions to national development command our respect.”

The immediate past acting National Chairman, Bukar Dalori, noted that the resignation of the former National Chairman necessitated a meeting of the NEC to fill the vacancy. He thanked the President and the Progressive Governors’ Forum for their strategic intervention during the transition period.

Obasa lauds Yilwatda

Meanwhile, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, congratulated the new APC chairman, charging him to ensure that he enthroned a stronger and more virile party that will be indomitable in the 2027 general election.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dave Agboola, Obasa described Yilwatda as a proper fit for the party’s leadership.

He praised his decades-long contributions to academia, public service, and his pivotal role in Nigeria’s digital transformation, including his tenure as Director of ICT at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, as well as his extensive consultancy work with global institutions such as the European Union, UNICEF, and the World Bank.

He also cited his sterling and memorable roles as a Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission and, until recently, Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.

“Prof. Yilwatda’s commitment to reforming public service through technology aligns squarely with the APC’s mission to uplift communities and drive national progress.

“I have full confidence that your technocratic and political leadership will unite our great party, strengthen our popularity and growth, and chart a bold course for our party as we prepare for 2027,” Obasa stated.

PDP vows takeover

However, while the ruling party celebrated the emergence of a new chairman, governors elected on the platform of the opposition PDP have vowed to challenge the APC ruling and the emerging African Democratic Congress-led coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on behalf of the PDP Governors during the party’s 101st National Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, stated that the party would no longer tolerate acts of indiscipline.

He noted that internal crises triggered by indiscipline had recently been addressed and resolved.

Ahead of the 2027 polls, several high-profile politicians have defected to the ADC-led coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-presidential aspirant Dele Momodu.

On the other hand, some PDP leaders have also crossed over to the APC.

They include Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the party’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa, among others.

The Bauchi State Governor affirmed their commitment to reviving the party and delivering hope to Nigerians.

Mohammed stated, “We will not continue to condone indiscipline in this place, because indiscipline is what brought us all the problems and challenges.

“Definitely, the party has shown resilience, and the governors are going through a lot of challenges, just like the NWC. We will continue to express confidence in the organs of the party.

“We are ready to work with you so that no personal interest will divide us.

“Our ambition is not more important than the nation. We must be able to hide our personal ambition, either as governors or those seeking the presidency so that we can leave a level playing field,” Mohammed stated.

He added, “Now, with the necessary recognition by the regulator, INEC, at the end of the day, we’ll give the APC political competition a run for their money in terms of contest that will be given on a level playing field, with a party that is intact, and also give answers to our people wishing to come in.

“In terms of whatever permutation or conjecture we call it whether it is coalition, whether it is alliance it is the PDP that should be able to drive it, because it is the main opposition party.”

The Bauchi State Governor stated that the party sympathises with those who left out of impatience, noting that the door will remain open for their return though only for a limited time.

“This is a long way we have traveled. This is how PDP is known, a party with a history, with a logo that has not changed over the years, the party that has shown resilience, and we have the governors solidly behind all the organs of the party.

“We don’t have to make a lot of noise. We are working behind the scene, behind the NWC, behind the BoT, the caucuses of the National Assembly and the six chapters to ensure that we remain intact and provide a credible platform for Nigerians to actualize their aspirations.

“As the BoT Secretary has said, This is not time for calling names. This is not time for abusers. We sympathise for those who became impatient and left but certainly they will understand and we would still leave the door ajar for them to come in when they wish to, within a time limit,” he stated.

Earlier in his remarks, PDP’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, expressed confidence in the eventual collapse of the recently formed opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Damagum stated, “I have no charge beyond this; that we deliberate sincerely and make decisions that serve the interest of the PDP and the Nigerian people. However, I must address the matter of a so-called coalition recently formed, which includes some defecting members of our party.

“On this issue, I am pleased to report that this political experiment is nothing to lose sleep over. They say a bird in hand is worth two in the bush. Some persons have recently learned this truth in the most uncomfortable way. Many who jumped on the coalition bandwagon have already returned to our fold. Some even claim they never left and merely attended a meeting, we accept their confessions without prejudice.

“Let me add that this reversal is not limited to PDP members alone. Individuals from other political parties who initially joined this coalition have realised that the venture is ill-fated and their swift return is proof of this.

“The Peoples Democratic Party remains the only party that is not only poised and ready to take back power, but also the only party with the structure, national acceptability, and legacy capable of bearing the weight of this great national undertaking. To close this matter, I believe that all of us look forward to the total dismantling of this ill-fated coalition, even as we extend our best wishes to those involved.”

He further expressed gratitude to party stakeholders for their unwavering commitment and praised the state chairmen for their efforts.

He stated, “Let me begin by appreciating our state party chairpersons, who are the first line of defence in our democratic struggle. It is from your leadership that our grassroots structures are nurtured and sustained.

“Your resilience, especially in states where we are in opposition, is commendable. We recognise the burdens you carry and salute your unwavering commitment to the party. You are comrades in the trenches of democracy.

“I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Minority Leaders of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as all our legislators in the National Assembly. You have represented the values of our party with integrity and tenacity. I must emphasise that it is because of your steadfastness that when we eventually reclaim the presidency, the next PDP president will not be a political orphan left to the mercy of hostile forces.

“Beyond electoral victories, our legislators play a crucial role in both governance and party life. Through your actions, anti-people policies are challenged and checked. You serve as role models to our state assembly members, who themselves are doing tremendous work delivering the dividends of representative democracy and supporting the executive arm in PDP-led states.”

Damagum also hailed the governors as the backbone and pride of the party.

“You remain the backbone of this party, and without your leadership and sacrifice, we would be left exposed. We are indeed fortunate to have you.”

Meanwhile, the PDP 101th NEC has shifted its National Elective Convention originally planned for August to November 2025.

Addressing a press conference after the NEC meeting, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, announced that the convention would now take place in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, instead of the previously announced venue, Kano.

Ologunagba, while presenting the communiqué at the conclusion of the 101st NEC meeting, also announced that the 102nd session has been rescheduled to take place in August.

The PDP National Publicity Secretary, flanked by other party leaders, stated, “NEC expressed satisfaction over the resolution of all contentions and disagreements within the Party which again demonstrates the engrained patriotic disposition of PDP members and our Party’s democratic principles of dialogue, mutual understanding and commitment to the overall interest of the PDP and the common good of all Nigerians.

“NEC reassures all party members and Nigerians that the PDP remains a strong, united, cohesive, stable and focused political party repositioned to effectively play its role as the leading opposition Party in galvanising all efforts towards rescuing our dear nation from the catastrophic misrule of the All Progressives Congress.

“Pursuant to the foregoing, NEC approved the year 2025 Elective National Convention Schedule of Activities and Timetable. Under the approved Timetable, the Elective National Convention to elect the next set of National Officers of our Party will hold on Saturday, 15th to Sunday, 16th November, 2025 in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital.

“Consequently, NEC directed the National Chairman, His Excellency, Amb. Iliya Damagum and the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu to officially write to inform the Independent National Electoral Commission of the time, venue and agenda of the Elective National Convention in accordance with the requirement of Section 82 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 and Part 2(12) of the Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, 2022.”

According to the communiqué read by Ologunagba, NEC also approved the composition of both the National Convention Committee and the Zoning Committee to ensure a transparent and credible Elective National Convention.

The communique read in part, “In its determination to preserve all the electoral mandate given to our Party by Nigerians across the country, NEC directed the National Working Committee to take immediate legal action to recover the seats of all serving members of the National and State Assemblies elected on the platform of the PDP but defected to another Party.

“By virtue of the self-executory provision of Sections 68 (1) (g) and 109 (1) (g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) such defectors have irredeemably lost their seats, there being no division or merger with regard to the PDP.

“NEC expressed serious concern and frowns at the reported participation and involvement of some Party members in the activities, meetings and gathering of another political party. NEC calls on these members to reconsider their actions and show loyalty and commitment as members of the PDP especially as the law does not permit membership of two political Parties at the same time.”

The PDP NEC reassured its members of the progress made in addressing concerns related to the party.

According to the communique, “NEC restates that the PDP as the leading opposition Party and platform of choice for all Nigerians remains open in working with other well-meaning and like-minded citizens in the collective effort to rescue our nation from the stranglehold of the rudderless and insensitive APC administration.

“NEC reassures of PDP’s belief in Democracy, and its commitment and readiness to be at the forefront in driving the aspiration of Nigerians to oust the APC and install a people-oriented government on the platform of the PDP come 2027.”

Earlier at the 81st Board of Trustees meeting held on Thursday at Wadata Plaza in Abuja, PDP BoT chairman, Adolphus Wabara, represented by BoT secretary, Ahmed Makarfi, stated that the outcome of the November Elective Convention would send a strong message to Nigerians.

He stated, “We have to build on that stability, but we must never take things for granted, because for one reason or the other, some of our friends and associates have left us. I don’t believe they have left us for good. I believe, when you look at the agenda, the success of the items scheduled is what will bring most of them back. I cannot say all of them, but we can even bring new hands into the PDP.

“So the ball is in our court, not only to discuss and approve the items on the agenda, but to make sure the outcome of the scheduled National Convention sends a strong, positive message to Nigerians, because that is what is going to define the political landscape in this country.”

He also urged party leaders to be mindful in their reactions to defectors, noting that the party would welcome their return.

The BoT chairman stated, “I urge all members to be cautious of what they say or do. Some cannot be working to rebuild the party, and others trying to demarket it.

“There is a difference between personal opinion and party position. If anybody is speaking on personal opinion, he or she should say so. The party has formal organs for speaking, and that should be respected.

“We must never show to the public that we are a group where anybody can do what he or she likes anytime and anyhow. We must be cautious of each other by what we do or what we don’t do as we move forward.

“I will also advise that, yes, we may have differences, but we should be conscious in expressing opinions, even on those who have left us, because what we want is for them to come back now or very, very soon.

“We know that some people are aggrieved, but we have to come down and pull down whatever our grievances may be. If we work together, the convention should resolve all grievances. It’s an opportunity, and we must not miss it. We should be patient and make use of it.”

Also, Dr Bukola Saraki, who headed the PDP Reconciliation and Strategy Committee to resolve the crisis in the party, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful outcome of the NEC meeting.

He said, “I am particularly elated that with the success of today’s (Thursday) meeting, the Reconciliation and Strategy Committee headed by me has achieved parts of the mandate given to us by the PDP Governors Forum on May 12, 2025.

“We were mandated to clear all obstacles preventing the party from holding its NEC meeting and moving on to have a hitch-free national convention.

“The outcome of today’s meeting is an indication that our committee is delivering on our assignment. The NEC meeting was successfully held. Also, the machinery for a successful convention has been set in motion.”

In addition to the Bauchi State Governor, Damagum, Makarfi and Saraki, those present at the meeting included Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and Ahmed Fintiri (Adamawa).

Also in attendance were former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, former Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson, former Benue Governor Samuel Ortom, Senator Abba Moro, Chief Olabode George, and former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, among others.

From the National Working Committee were National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, Deputy Secretary Setonji Koshoedo, and Deputy National Vice Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja.

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Politics

2027 showdown: Wike-Makinde rift threatens high-stakes PDP convention

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There are strong indications that the November national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party scheduled for Ibadan, Oyo State, may be derailed following a threat by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to halt the event.

Wike’s opposition to the convention is believed to be the result of his rift with his erstwhile ally, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and other unresolved issues in the party.

Ahead of the elective convention slated for November 16, the PDP has, however, issued a stern warning to the minister over his moves against the party’s plans.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, in an interview with selected journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, cautioned that decisive action under the party’s constitution would be taken against him should he continue to undermine the collective interests of the party.

PDP National Executive Committee members, including Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor and former National Vice Chairman (South West) Eddy Olafeso, accused Wike of overstepping his bounds, vowing to resist his moves.

They stressed that the party was undergoing a rebuilding process and would strengthen its structure through the Ibadan convention, insisting that no individual could obstruct internal party activities, particularly with the Independent National Electoral Commission already involved.

The PDP only just emerged from months of internal crisis that saw the defection of key figures, including its 2019 and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate and former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, and other prominent leaders to the APC and the newly formed African Democratic Congress.

In a bid to restructure and reposition itself, the party, during its 101st NEC meeting on July 24, resolved to convene a National Elective Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, where 19 new members will be elected into the National Working Committee.

Dissatisfied with the South-South Caretaker Committee constituted by the PDP NWC and the retention of Ali Odefa as National Vice Chairman (South East), Wike vowed that his camp would resist the party’s decision.

Speaking during an interview on Channels TV programme, ‘Politics Today,’ on Tuesday night, the former Rivers State governor cautioned that the party’s crisis might appear resolved for now, fresh crisis could erupt if the PDP refused to acknowledge the zonal congress that elected Dan Orbih as National Vice Chairman, South-South.

He said, “Well, it is over for now. There are a few things remaining and I have told them that they must do it. Our congress was held in Calabar, and there’s nothing anybody can tell us. If they want to have another round of crisis, so be it. In that congress, Chief Dan Orbih emerged as the National Vice Chairman. They never wanted the congress to hold but congress was held.

“The so-called acting national chairman of the party wrote a letter to INEC after congress was held that the congress has been postponed. There is no two ways about it. The National Vice Chairman of PDP South-South is Chief Dan Orbih. If they don’t agree, that’s another round of crisis,” he threatened.

Wike also argued that the party must deal with its South-East zonal chairman, Ali Odefa, who had been sacked from the party by an order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

“The south-east vice chairman, Ali Odefa, is no longer a member of the party. These are the things I tell people. What I don’t like is impunity. And for someone like me, we will not condone it. I will not allow it. We will fight it except they correct it.’’

Wike added that the national convention being put together by the party might end up in crisis if the anomalies in the PDP were not corrected.

“They said that they are going for their convention in November. I am not part of it until they have corrected it. Let us wait, there is still time for them to resolve it. Before you talk about the convention, resolve the matter. If the matter is not resolved, there will be a crisis.”

He dismissed reports suggesting that a parallel convention was being plotted, insisting that no formal decision had been taken by the party’s NEC.

“I am not aware that any convention would be held in Ibadan. As a NEC member, nobody has informed me, and no such decision has been voted on by NEC. If a few people gather to make pronouncements, that cannot pass for NEC,” Wike said.

He pledged that his group would continue to fight against injustice within the PDP.

The FCT Minister stated, “I am not aware of any convention. If notice of a meeting is not given to members of the NEC, we have the right to challenge it, and nobody can deny me that right.”

When questioned about whether he would take the matter to court, Wike responded, “Our group is meeting tomorrow, and obviously, I don’t think we will allow injustice to prevail. I can assure you that we will not allow it. Nobody serves the interests of the PDP more than I do. None of them.”

Our correspondents in Abuja reported that former governors Samuel Ortom (Benue), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, and other allies of Wike were spotted together on Tuesday.

Although the Wike group’s meeting had not yet been held as of press time, sources close to the minister indicated that it would take place soon, and their resolution would be announced publicly.

A source in the minister’s camp, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment on the issue, told The PUNCH that Wike’s group was prepared to fight till the end.

He stated, “We will meet later today (Wednesday). What I can assure you is that Wike and some of us will fight to the end. The injustice in the South-South and South-East will not stand.

“If the party is not ready to correct this, we will do everything legally possible to address it. But if they want the convention to hold, they must act; otherwise, they will be surprised.”

Reacting, Ologunagba, who countered Wike, said all NEC members were duly informed, and insisted that the National Elective Convention would hold as scheduled.

He stated, “Our NEC and other meetings have been convened properly. We follow the due process. INEC has been duly informed, as expected, of the meetings of the NEC relating to those issues. And in any event, I do not intend to join issues with anybody on this matter.

“The PDP constitution is there, we follow through the constitution. Our preparation is going on. The NEC, which is the second-highest decision-making body of this party, has fixed the venue for the national convention NEC selected the venue, and the venue is Ibadan, Oyo State, on the 15th and 16th of November 2025.

“That national convention will hold on the 15th and 16th of November 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State. Like I referenced earlier, the train moving towards the national convention has moved, and it’s arriving at its destination because right now all arrangements and all committees are working seamlessly towards a successful national convention at Ibadan.

“In any event, we have documents showing that every relevant person, including Minister Wike, was referenced, and evidence showed that he actually received a letter duly acknowledged and signed for from his office. If there are challenges within his office, we cannot be held accountable for that. In addition to that personalised letter, there was a publication in the national dailies. So, there’s adequate notice: members have approved it, NEC approved it, secretaries approved it, all organs have approved it, and we’re fine, we’re going, we’re coasting on to the national convention in Ibadan.”

In response to a question on how the PDP would handle Wike and his group’s decision to oppose the party’s plan, Ologunagba said that the party would take “necessary steps.”

The PDP Publicity secretary added, “Well, again, I do know that this party has done everything that is within the law, following the constitution, and we will continue to follow the constitution. If there are actions inconsistent with that constitution, the necessary actions will kick in. We’ve said that before, and we mean every word we have said as a party.

“Look, a party is a voluntary thing;  there’s free entry and free exit. When you choose to leave, you can leave, but it will be irreconcilable for you, or any member, to stay within a party that has rules and not follow those rules. So, for us, we are not joining issues with anybody. We are not going to be raising issues with anybody. We are focused on our process to have a seamless national convention, and we will do that because this is the hope of democracy in this country.

“We are focused, laser-focused, on what to do in the interest of democracy, in the interest of our party. But we have said it again, and we’ll say it again: there will be zero tolerance for disloyalty in our great party. PDP is a party of process, a party of rule and law. There are established ways of taking action and seeking redress that are consistent with the constitution, we will insist on that constitutional provision and do what is necessary and appropriate.”

Also, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Osadolor, warned Wike’s group, reminding them that the Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that internal party matters are non-justiciable.

He stated, “First of all, we are all aware that the convention has not been held. We are also aware that NEC held, and INEC participated in the last NEC, where resolutions on the convention that is going to hold in Ibadan on November 15 and 16 were taken, and they were duly notified.

“Again, this issue of going to court, like they are threatening, I wonder what has informed all of that. But again, I am aware, everybody’s aware, the Supreme Court made a pronouncement that internal dealings and affairs of political parties are not justiciable. It was a landmark pronouncement during the case of Anyanwu versus the Southeast Leaders, and the LP case versus Abure. And all of these two judgments came in the earlier part and the middle part of this year.

“I wonder which court will now entertain the briefs on issues that border on the internal affairs of political parties, having heard from the Apex Court. Again, I think the FCT Minister is overreaching himself by wanting to put himself first and above the collective interests of the political party he claims to belong to.

“And, therefore, I will urge him to take a second thought and not put himself on the wrong side of history. Because the PDP is rebuilding currently, and efforts so far have shown that Nigerians are appreciating the rebuilding that is currently going on within the party.”

Osadolor called on all party members to support the PDP’s rebuilding efforts, stressing that no single individual can prevent the party from carrying out its plans.

The NEC member stated, “Therefore, any party member should not be seen to be derailing the progress that the party has made post the defections of some adventurous governors and senators.

“So, I want to also use this medium to tell you, Nigerians, the PDP will remain committed to its programs, and it remains undeterred in having a national convention that will usher in the next set of national committee members to pilot the affairs of the party.

“No matter who is going to court or who is not going to court, the programs of the party are set, and nothing will go against it.”

Another NEC member, Olafeso, on his part, vowed that Wike’s attempts to undermine the PDP would be resisted.

He stated, “In the final analysis, it’s obvious that Wike plans to destroy our party, and nobody will allow that for him. He’s heading for the final battle, and we’re ready for him. As far as we are concerned, we followed all the due processes to come this far.

“And he, and any other person on this planet, cannot stop us. Sometimes the arrogance of power will make them look as if everything is possible. The lawlessness that he’s exhibiting is quite unfortunate because the truth is that we are guided by a constitution.

“And that just stipulates how to move forward. We have to manage ourselves. We have followed the constitution all through. We are waiting for them to go to court. We’ll meet them there.”

Also, a former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, has described the threat of Wike to stop the party’s convention slated for Ibadan in November as a mere noise.

The PDP chieftain said the decision of the NEC of the party is superior to the personal craving of any individual, no matter how powerful.

He said, “No individual owns this party (PDP). NEC decided that there will be a national convention, and it will be held in Ibadan. Any individual can make his noise. PDP is not like the All Progressives Congress, which is owned by one person. It is the decision of the NEC authority that is taking us to a national convention.

“I will advise my political son (Wike) to just follow the rules. Otherwise, if he goes beyond that, the party has its own laws. Wike cannot dictate to people like me and many other oldies who are still fully in PDP. I don’t know why he said that (threat to scuttle the Ibadan convention). I am not happy that he said that.

“The party will take appropriate action. We have a NEC meeting coming up on Monday. I will support the procedures and the rules as stated in our constitution. No individual can change the rules, no matter what. Ibadan is the venue of our convention, and Ibadan we will go.”

Attempts to reach the PDP National Secretary, Anyanwu, a member of Wike’s camp, for a reaction were unsuccessful, as his phone was switched off at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State PDP Chairman, Dayo Ogungbenro, stated that the party’s leaders would resolve the issues bedeviling the party ahead of the November convention.

Ogungbenro said, “Well, I think I read it (Wike’s threat) in the newspaper today (Wednesday), I just laughed! It’s a sheer political statement, nothing less, nothing more. Because he is somebody I respect so much, whom my Governor, Seyi Makinde, worked, and stood for and by extension, the PDP in the state.

“He (Wike) should know that we supported him wholeheartedly, but that’s politics for you. So, let’s wait and see. Everything is politics, and our leaders will resolve it, no matter what happens,” he stated.

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Coalition: ‘Nigerians Are Aware That Their Politicians Are Fraudsters’ – Farotimi

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Nigerian lawyer cum public affairs analyst, Dele Farotimi, has stated that Nigerians are fully aware of the deceitful nature of their leaders.

It was reports that Farotimi made this known during an interview with News Central, asserting that the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition against President Bola Tinubu has already failed because the party is recycling characters who have ruined Nigeria.

The activist accused the ADC coalition of building its relevance around politicians who contributed to the current state of the country, adding that such tactics no longer deceive Nigerians.

He said, “If all that they are doing in the name of coalition is that they are going to bring that odious fellow from Kaduna; bringing characters that have ruined this country; the one who couldn’t even pay my grandfather’s gratuity in Osun, if it’s those ones, they have lost.

“Nigerians are aware that their politicians are fraudsters.”

Farotimi also accused Tinubu’s government of surrounding itself with people who are incapable of questioning authorities, even as they destroy the country.

He said, “The government and the people within Tinubu’s government should say what they are saying. People can’t even walk around freely in cities, and they are talking about how well they are doing. When they come out and they tell you all the things that are working, it means it’s working for them. All they need is to recruit more people who are incapable of questioning them even as they destroy the country.”

Farotimi likened state Governors to the character of a popular skit maker, Governor Amuneke, whose video content is predicated on the promise and fail attitude of governors.

According to him, Nigeria is plagued by dishonest leaders across different states.

He said, “Look at that one in Imo State that was lying to the people that they were going to be having jobs abroad once they won the election. How many jobs have come from Europe for the people of Imo State since they went there?

“There are so many Governor Amuneke all over Nigeria.”

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By-election: Seek redress in court, Ogun IPAC urges aggrieved parties

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The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee in Ogun State, Abayomi Sanyaolu, on Wednesday urged all political parties that participated in the House of Representatives Saturday by-election for the seat of Remo Federal constituency to accept in good faith the results of the poll as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Sanyaolu said that any political party that is disenchanted with the results of the poll which declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, winner, should head to court to seek redress rather than engaging in any act capable of hurting the peaceful coexistence of the residents of the state

Recall that Elegbeji, who contested on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, polled 41,237 votes to defeat her closest rival, Bola Oluwole of the Peoples Democratic Party, who garnered 14,324 votes.

The IPAC Chairman disclosed this at a briefing held in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

He stated that the position of the electoral law is that once INEC declares the results of a poll, the option left for aggrieved participants in that electoral process is to approach a competent court of jurisdiction to seek redress.

Sanyaolu explained, “Though other political parties also participated in the by-election but the Independent National Electoral Commission has declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Mrs Ayoola Elegbeji, as the winner of the poll. So, as the Chairman of IPAC in the state, what is left to do is to call for the unity of all. We don’t want violence, all that we want is peace for the state to continue to make progress.

“Our duty is to relate with other political parties and to advise that we all give peace a chance, there must be no bloodshed or crisis after the election. If any of the political parties that participated in the by-election is not satisfied with the conduct of the election, the best thing to do is to go to court to seek redress.

“I could remember that during the local government election held in the state last year, we had some issues with the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission and we went to court and got our judgment against them.

“In this wise too, if you are having any misgivings over the last Saturday Remo Federal constituency by-election, don’t take the law into your hands. Go to court to seek redress and let the peace that we have continued to enjoy in the state prevail.”

Speaking during the briefing, the factional National Secretary of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Comrade Oginni Olaposi, also urged anyone dissatisfied with the results of the by-election to approach the court to vent their anger and misgivings over the conduct of the election.

Oginni said that the emphatic victory of the APC in the by-election is traceable to the fact that the governor is from the Remo Federal constituency and his giant strides, particularly the construction of the multi billion naira Agrocargo airport within the vicinity, precisely in Iperu Remo, the governor’s home town must have attracted lot of admiration for the Governor’s party.

He added, “I want to say that the election went the way it went because the governor, who is the leader of the ruling party, is from Remoland, Iperu Remo to be precise.

“And we should not forget that the multi-billion naira mega project of the Agrocargo airport is sited in that region. So the by-election became an opportunity for the people of Remo land to show their appreciation to the governor and therefore voted massively for the ruling All Progressives Congress.

“So, I won’t say that as an opposition party member, the election was rigged or compromise, I think what swing the vote in favor of the ruling party and the governor is that multi billion naira airport project which will serve as a good alternative to the one in Lagos and also help to decongest the airport in Lagos.

“The opposition parties should just go back to the drawing board and see how we can do better next time. We should not say that we want to bring the roof down because our parties did not win. And if we feel aggrieved, let’s approach a competent court to seek redress. So I am appealing for peace and understanding, there is always another day to put up a better performance in the future election.”

Also speaking, the factional National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Abayomi Arabambi, declared that the landslide victory of the APC was a referendum of acceptance of the government of the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, by his kinsmen in Remoland, who have benefited a lot from his administration.

Arabambi said, “The outcome of the election is a referendum for the government of Gov Dapo Abiodun. He has done a lot for the people in that region and they compensated him with the emphatic victory for his party, the APC. The Cargo airport situated within the region is a game-changer.

“And once INEC declares a winner in an election, the next option for whoever has an axe to grind with the conduct of the election is to go to court rather than causing any brigandage.

“So I congratulate President Bola Tinubu, the governor and the security agencies for ensuring an enabling environment for the conduct of the election. Any party that is not satisfied with the conduct of the election as spelt out by the electoral laws will have to go to court.”

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