By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Abdulrahman Mohammed and Samuel Anyanwu emerged as National Chairman and National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday at the party’s 2026 national convention held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium Velodrome in Abuja, where delegates endorsed them through consensus to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
PDP Elects New National Working Committee
Alongside Mohammed and Anyanwu, delegates also selected 19 other members of the National Working Committee (NWC). The consensus arrangement aimed to stabilise the party after months of internal crisis.
The convention attracted key stakeholders, including Sule Lamido, Bukola Saraki, and Ahmed Makarfi.
Wike Assures PDP’s 2027 Election Participation
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, described the convention as a turning point for the PDP. He stressed that the party’s healing process had begun.
He assured members that the PDP would participate in the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the convention recognised by the electoral body confirmed the party’s legitimacy. He also emphasised unity and inclusiveness as key pillars for rebuilding the PDP.
Call for Unity and Party Renewal
In his remarks, Abdulrahman Mohammed urged members to embrace unity and renewal. He stated that the convention marked a fresh start for the party.
He noted that the PDP must prioritise inclusiveness over division. He added that the gathering symbolised restoration, responsibility, and a renewed commitment to national development.
Reconciliation Efforts Continue
The Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee, Okezie Ikpeazu, revealed that 2,035 delegates attended the event.
He also assured members that reconciliation efforts would continue beyond the convention. According to him, the party remains open to resolving all internal disputes.
Legal Disputes and Leadership Crisis
Before the convention, the PDP faced a leadership crisis linked to its 2025 Ibadan convention. The dispute led to multiple court cases.
On March 9, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld a Federal High Court ruling that restrained the party from conducting the Ibadan convention.
Later, on March 23, a panel led by Uchechukwu Onyemenam dismissed the PDP’s appeal. The court ruled that the party violated constitutional provisions.
However, a faction within the party has approached the Supreme Court to challenge the judgment.
PDP Positions Itself for 2027
Despite internal challenges, party leaders expressed confidence in the PDP’s future. Wike reiterated that the party would reclaim its mandate and strengthen its political base.
He praised members for their resilience during the crisis and encouraged them to remain committed to rebuilding the party.
