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  • JUST IN: Taraba Assembly speaker, 15 others defect to APC from PDP

    JUST IN: Taraba Assembly speaker, 15 others defect to APC from PDP

    Members of the Taraba State House of Assembly elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected from the party to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Among the defectors is the Speaker of the House, John Kizito, who read the letters from each of the lawmakers, all indicating their decision to leave the PDP and switch allegiance to the APC.

    The defection, according to the members, was because of the prolonged crisis in the PDP at the national level and the need to align with the centre for federal presence in Taraba.

    The defection is in the wake of the intention of the State Governor, Agbu Kefas, to join the APC on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

    With the defection, all 24 members of the state assembly are now on the platform of the APC.

  • JUST IN: Wike backed PDP-faction summons emergency BoT, NEC meeting

    JUST IN: Wike backed PDP-faction summons emergency BoT, NEC meeting

    The FCT Minister Nyesom Wike-backed faction of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has summoned an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting following the suspension of key party members during the National Convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The PDP during the Ibadan National Convention expelled Wike, Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, Ayo Fayose, Austin Nwachukwu, and others for Anti-Party Activities.

    In a notice by Samuel Anyanwu, the National Secretary of the Wike-backed faction, members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) are invited to an emergency meeting scheduled for Tuesday at the PDP National Secretariat at the Wadata Plaza in Abuja.

    The statement reads: “The members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BOT) are hereby invited to an emergency meeting of NEC & BOT scheduled as follows:

    Read Also: PDP govs split over expulsion of Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu, others

    “Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2025

    “Venue: NEC Hall, PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja

    “Time: For BOT: 11:a.m. and NEC: 02:00 p.m.

    “Attendance is very important as crucial matters will be discussed and addressed,” the statement concluded.

    The Nation previously reported that the Umar Damagun-led Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) has expelled Wike;  former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose and eight others over alleged anti-party activities.

  • Ibadan convention: More states, stakeholders disown process

    Ibadan convention: More states, stakeholders disown process

    The factional convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the weekend has escalated the crisis in the party.

    More chapters and stakeholders have continued to fault the procedure and rejected the expulsion of 11 stalwarts, including Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

    A party source said over the weekend that both factions are gearing up for the next phase of legal fireworks at the court.

    The Umar Iliya Damagun-led faction had ignored the judgments of the Federal High Court that restrained the party from conducting the convention, leaning on the exparte order of the Ibadan High Court, which adjourned till December 8 for the resumption of hearing in the case instituted against the party by a chieftain, Folahan Malomo Adelabi.

    Read Also: Religious genocide: Idris charges advertisers to correct narratives

    Ibadan convention illegal, says Imo PDP

    Rejecting the outcome of the Ibadan convention, the Imo State chapter, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Lancelot Obiaku, described it as a “mere gathering of a lawless Committee of Friends,” which ignored court rulings, violated internal procedures, and paraded suspended and expelled members as delegates.

    Obiaku said: “It was a tea party of lawless friends, a sham convention drenched in illegality.”

    The party officer reaffirmed the loyalty of the chapter to Acting National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary, stressing that the refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to monitor the event underscored its lack of legitimacy.

    Obiaku described the dissolution of Imo PDP executives as “wishful” thinking.

    He said: “We completely disregard the news making the rounds that our structure has been dissolved, as such is only a wishful thought existing in the imaginations of its purveyors.”

  • Ondo PDP group slams Ibadan convention, says party has been ‘sold out’

    Ondo PDP group slams Ibadan convention, says party has been ‘sold out’

    A group within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, the Kick Against Deceit (KADec), has condemned the weekend convention of the opposition party held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

    It expressed deep concern over the future of the PDP, likening the convention to “the last sips from its cup,” similar to the biblical “Last Supper” taken by Christ and His disciples.

    In a statement on Sunday signed by its Protem Director, Hon. Bamidele Ojo, KADec said, “As the Last Supper commemorated Jesus’ last meal with His disciples before His betrayal, the Ibadan convention symbolised the last cash out by those who have betrayed and sold the soul of the party to the highest bidders.”

    The group warned that the once-vibrant political platform might never recover, stressing that “this time around, the deep betrayal came from the core leaders of the party.”

    KADec argued that if the party had not been “irretrievably sold,” organisers of the Ibadan convention would have postponed the event to address the numerous challenges confronting the PDP, including multiple court judgments, the absence of several state chapters, and the non-attendance of notable party leaders.

    Read Also: Shettima leads fed govt’s delegation to condole Shagari family

    While noting that the National Convention is the highest decision-making organ of the PDP, the group questioned the validity of the Ibadan Convention and the legitimacy of any resolutions reportedly reached at the event.

    The group faulted the decision to proceed with the gathering despite the withdrawal of the National Organizing Committee Chairman, H.E. Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Fintiri, which it said cast serious doubt on the morality, validity, and credibility of the process.”

    It added that the rejection of key decisions by some governors at the convention further undermined unity within the party and exposed the PDP to avoidable public ridicule.”

    KADec also cautioned those behind what it called the “last cash out” at the Ibadan convention to remember the fate of Judas Iscariot, warning that similar consequences await those who allegedly betrayed the party for personal gain.

    It described the convention as nothing short of a “funeral ceremony” for the PDP in Ibadan.

  • How Turaki emerges PDP factional national chairman, pledges transparency, party reunification

    How Turaki emerges PDP factional national chairman, pledges transparency, party reunification

    Amid intense political drama, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki emerged as the new factional national chairman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the weekend, promising to prioritise the will of the people, listen to their voices, and deliver on their expectations.

    Turaki assured party members and Nigerians that the new National Working Committee under his leadership would operate with fairness, transparency, equity, and justice, working diligently to rebuild and reunite the party.

    He made the pledge in his acceptance speech shortly after being sworn in at the PDP’s national convention.

    Turaki won decisively, polling 1,516 votes to defeat his closest rival, Senator Yakubu Lado, who received 43 votes. Although Senator Lado had earlier withdrawn from the race citing zoning considerations, some of his supporters still cast votes in his favour.

    A total of 3,131 delegates participated in the convention held at the Mainbowl of Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan on Saturday, with 275 votes declared void. Before the election, 2,745 delegates were accredited, and total votes cast stood at 1,834.

    Turaki, a prominent PDP figure and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), had been adopted as the consensus candidate by Northern PDP stakeholders ahead of the convention.

    Read Also: Oyo APC condemns PDP Ibadan convention, calls it a ‘carnival of shame’

    In the race for Deputy National Organising Secretary, Solarin Sunday Adekunle emerged winner, polling 633 votes to defeat Adelabu Malomo (507 votes) and Olabayiwa Ogundipe (417 votes) from a total of 1,577 votes cast.

    The oath of allegiance and office was administered by Barrister Musa Abdulwasil at about 11:50 PM.

    Expressing gratitude to the delegates, Turaki acknowledged the weight of their trust and assured that the new National Working Committee would work tirelessly to justify their confidence in rebuilding and strengthening the PDP.

    The Chairman highlighted the PDP’s rich history, noting that it is the only party that has maintained its name, label, motto, and texture since its inception. This, he attributed to the party’s commitment to the Nigerian people.

    While acknowledging the challenges ahead, the Chairman expressed confidence in the party’s ability to rise to the task and promised that guiding principles and models for achieving party goals will be rolled out soon.

    In a bid to heal internal wounds, the Chairman extended an invitation to party members who have been aggrieved or have left the party to return, emphasizing that the party needs everyone’s support to rebuild and save Nigeria’s democracy.

    The Chairman concluded by thanking the delegates and assuring them that the party will deliver under the new committee’s leadership, ending with a call to action and a commitment to democracy and the people.

    Turaki said, “This is the day that the Lord has made for us. On behalf of myself and other members of the newly elected National Working Committee of our party, the People’s Democratic Party, I stand before you today, and indeed, for Nigerians, to thank you so much for putting this confidence in us.

    “I assure you, that the confidence you put in us will not be taken for granted. It is a very big and wondrous responsibility that you have trusted in us. For myself and my colleagues, I want to assure you that we shall do whatever it takes to carry out this assignment that has been placed on our shoulders.

    “In 1998, INEG registered three political parties. The People’s Democratic Party, the Alliance for Democracy (AD), and the All People’s Party. The All People’s Party became ANPP and then got divided into ANPP and CPC and found its way into what is now called APC.

    “AD became AC, became ACN, and was submerged in APC. Today, as I talk to you, the only political party that has continued and maintained its name, its label, its motto, its texture, its density, is the People’s Democratic Party. This has been possible only because this is the party for Nigerian people.

    “I want to say to you members of PDP, and indeed to you Nigerians outside there, that make no mistake about it, we are returning the party to you, the people. There will be no more impunity, there will be no more suppression of the will of Nigerian people. We shall open our ears wide open to listen to you, to determine what you want.

    “And what you want is what we shall give you. Gone are the days when monkey will walk and baboon will eat. If baboon wants to eat, then baboon must be seen to be working like monkey.”

    He said further, “Number two, on behalf of myself and my colleagues, I want to assure our teaming members, and indeed you Nigerians outside there, that from this moment on, whatever we do, there is fairness, there is transparency, there is equity, and there is justice. Because he who comes to equity, comes with clean hands. What you have done to us, the trust you have given us, means that you want us also to take it up to the great people.

    “And that we shall do. We are not under any illusion that the task that has been placed on us is a simple one. Our party is at crossroads now, but we are up to the task, we are up to the challenge.

    “Very soon, we shall be rolling out what our guiding principles will be, and models of lending for achieving the same. And when we do that, we shall be hitting the ground running from day one. But in all this thing, we want to assure our teaming members outside there, those that feel they have been aggrieved, and we don’t care whether those grievances are genuine or not.

    “Those that have now engaged in ‘siddon look’, and those who have left the party, again, for whatever reason, we have enough time, we will bring you back. Because the process of rebuilding, re-creating, re-uniting, re-extending this party needs every one of us. So we will ensure that no one is left there.

    “We will go around, we will come to you, we will come to your homes, we will come to your cities, we will come to your towns, we will appeal to you to come back. Because the task ahead of us, and that task is saving Nigeria’s democracy. That task is saving Nigeria from imminent precipice.”

    He also urged the judiciary to respect the constitution and the principles of stare decisis, cautioning against getting involved in purely political matters.

    “We need support and cooperation of every leader in this task. As a very senior member of the bar, let me say this to my constituency. Sometimes the heart bleeds to see the heart of judgement that comes up.

    “The most important institution in Nigeria is judicial. We will therefore be urging our judges, just as you are asking Nigerian politicians to respect their rules and respect the provisions of their constitution, we Nigerian politicians will also be pleading with you to respect your rules and respect the principles of stare decisis. We feel that it is not necessary for any judge that has been sworn to uphold the constitution to refuse to be guided by the decisions of the apex court.

    “Nigerian judiciary and indeed Nigerian judges have no business getting involved in matters that are exclusively or intrinsically political. Please save the judiciary. Don’t get involved in matters that are purely political.

    “Whatever that belongs to God, give it to God. Whatever that belongs to Caesar, give it to Caesar. When we do that, this democracy that a lot of our founding fathers had fought hard, even at great tasks, some of them have lost their lives.

    “Please do not either directly or indirectly or whether wittingly or unwittingly put yourselves in a situation where rightly or wrongly it may be assumed again whether correctly or incorrectly that you are part and parcel of the process to truncate Nigerian democracy.

    “I want to once again thank our people, our delegates, for reposing this confidence in us. No doubt the task is arduous, but I want to assure you that you have not made a mistake in choosing us and giving this responsibility to us. We will deliver and we are going to deliver by the special grace of God.”

    Also, a former deputy national chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja emerge as the party’s national Secretary, unopposed.

    Alh. Hamza Akuyan Koshe (Dep. Nat’l Chairman (North)), Dr. Daniel Ambrose W. (Dep. Nat’l Chairman (South)), Arapaja Taofeek Gbola-Oladejo (National Secretary), Ihediwa Richard Nnabugwu (Dep. Nat’l Secretary), Isa Abubakar (National Treasurer), Okechukwu Obiechina Daniel (National Financial Sec) and Hon. Theophilus Daka Shan (National Organising Sec)

    Others are: Ini Ememobong Essien (Nat’l Publicity Secretary), Aribisala Adewale Idowu (National Auditor), Bara’u Shafi’i (National Legal Adviser), Ogbu Anthonia Chinenyenwa (National Women’s Leader), Solarin Sunday Adekunle (Dep. National Organising Sec), Farida Umar Hamid (Dep. National Publicity Sec), Aigbokhaevbo Harrison O. (Dep. National Treasurer), Hamsatu Adamu (Dep. Nat. Women Leader), Hon Tina Puna Musa (Dep. National Financial Sec), Usamatu Maharazu (Dep. National Auditor) and Elec-Njaka Chikere (Dep. Nat’l Youth Leader)

    According to the Secretary, National Convention Organising Committee, Senator Ben Obi, who announced the list, the position of the National Youth Leader was stepped down.

  • Cleric dumps PDP, leads 3,000 supporters to APC in Akwa Ibom

    Cleric dumps PDP, leads 3,000 supporters to APC in Akwa Ibom

    • …says he is committed to Tinubu’s re-election

    A prominent cleric, Dr. Elijah Jack, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, taking more than 3,000 of his supporters with him.

    The defection ceremony, held over the weekend at Oniong East Ward 1 in Onna Local Government Area, drew the attendance of several past and serving political office holders.

    Jack, who is the General Overseer of His Divine Redeemed World Ministries, said he joined the APC to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and to contribute to the president’s re-election efforts in 2027.

    He explained that his move was motivated by patriotism and a desire to promote unity, peace, and inclusive governance.

    “My decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not driven by personal gain or political rivalry, but by a sincere desire to contribute more meaningfully to national unity, peace building, and inclusive governance,” he said.

    “At this moment in our country, what Nigerians need most is not division but healing, cooperation, and collective action. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has clearly emphasized the Renewed Hope Agenda, which calls for unity, stability, and the integration of all citizens regardless of party lines, into the national development process.

    “Likewise, in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno has consistently preached peace, unity, and development through the ARISE agenda.

    “As a church founder and an ambassador of peace, these are values I have practiced long before politics. In my ministry and community work, I have always preached forgiveness, tolerance, and reconciliation.

     “I have mediated disputes, united families, supported youths across party divides, and encouraged people to see one another first as brothers and sisters, and not opponents.

    “So, my defection is not meant to create tension but to build bridges. I am joining the APC to bring spiritual and moral leadership to the space, and encourage more citizens to participate peacefully in governance”.

    He added that he is going to begin a political and spiritual movement to win supporters for Tinubu, the Senate president, Goddess Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno 

    “Going forward, I will continue to support programmes that unite youths, women, and other marginalized groups irrespective of political differences, and use my platform as a clergyman to preach political tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

    “I am going to encourage all my followers to register in their various wards, as APC Members and also ensure they all apply and get their voters card ready for the 2027 election to vote President Tinibu and Governor Umo Eno, leaders and followers to put Nigeria first before political affiliations”, he said.

    Ultimately, my goal is to serve as a symbol of unity by showing that politics does not have to divide us, and that together we can build a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.”

    Receiving the defectors, Onna APC leader, Patrick Ifon, hailed the defection as a “landmark moment,” describing the new entrants as men and women of capacity whose presence guarantees electoral victory in the next cycle.

    “This is not just a defection; it is a political statement. With the thousands of Apostles Elijah has brought, APC in Onna is positioned to sweep all positions in the coming elections,” he declared 

    Commissioner for Finance, Emem Bob, described Apostle Jack as “a brother and friend whose capacity is beyond doubt”, adding that his move reflects Governor Umo Eno’s deep-rooted goodwill in Onna.

    Former House of Representatives member Dr. Owoidighe Ekpoattai, APC Chapter Chairman Mr. Nkanang Nkanang, Hon. Bassey Willie, Hon. Oton Charlie, Barr. Akan Idem, Hon. Emmanuel Ekpeyo, Elder Nelson Ntia, Hon. Samuel Mboso, and Comrade Tony Ekpo all praised the new movement, calling it a massive boost to APC’s grassroots strength. 

  • Oyo APC condemns PDP Ibadan convention, calls it a ‘carnival of shame’

    Oyo APC condemns PDP Ibadan convention, calls it a ‘carnival of shame’

    The Oyo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held in Ibadan, describing the event as a charade and a “carnival of shame, lawlessness, and impunity.”

    It was reported that despite multiple court rulings ordering the suspension of the convention, the faction led by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde proceeded with the event, hosting delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to elect new national officers for the party.

    In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC accused Governor Makinde of subjecting Ibadan residents to needless hardship by allegedly compelling commercial drivers to withdraw their services and assemble at the venue to inflate attendance and create a false impression of a successful convention.

    “PDP has been synonymous with impunity, and this played out again when a group within the party called the bluff of the judiciary to stage an illegal procession in Ibadan, which they tagged a national convention,” Sadare said.

    He further alleged that Governor Makinde was “desperate for national leadership” despite failing “woefully on the home front,” pointing to ongoing grievances from residents affected by property demolitions for the Ibadan Circular Road project.

    Sadare also claimed that a significant portion of the September allocations of the 33 local government councils was diverted to fund what he described as a “jamboree,” noting that many PDP governors reportedly declined to contribute financially.

    He warned that every public fund spent on the “failed PDP project” would be accounted for, asserting that the “kangaroo convention” signalled the beginning of the PDP’s collapse.

    However, he added that it was not too late for the party’s warring factions to reconcile if they hoped to remain relevant in future elections.

    “It is clear they have already lost 2027; their only chance is to plan ahead for possible relevance in 2031,” he said.

  • PDP govs split over expulsion of Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu, others

    PDP govs split over expulsion of Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu, others

    • Faction dissolves PDP structures in Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Rivers
    • Tanimu Turaki elected unopposed as national chairman
    • INEC, Saraki, Adeleke, Kefas, Fubara, absent

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears to have sunk deeper into crisis after the Damagum led faction made good its threat to proceed with the party’s National Convention in Ibadan  yesterday.

    The faction wielded the big stick, expelling Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose, the party’s national secretary Samuel Anyanwu and its national legal adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN).

    But two state governors elected on the platform of the party-Adamu Fintiri (Adamawa) and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) immediately dissociated themselves from the expulsion.

    They said no one discussed the move with them, wondering how the expulsion would help the party.

    Fayose was at the time of his expulsion yesterday celebrating his 65th birthday in Lagos.

    Also axed were the PDP National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, Acting National Chairman of the Wike faction of the party, Mohammed Abdulrahman, Chairman of the faction’s newly inaugurated Board of Trustees (BoT) Mao Ohuabunwa, Austin Nwachukwu, George Turner, Abraham Amali and Dan Orbih.

    Wike’s loyalists branded the development an early Christmas show.

    Former Special Duties Minister Kabiru Tanimu Turaki from Kebbi State, who had earlier been tipped for the position of National Chairman by the divided PDP Governors’ Forum, was elected unopposed.

    He became the only aspirant, following the announcement that his co-aspirant, Senator Yakubu Lado from Katsina State, had stepped down.

    Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were not at the event, apparently in obedience to  two rulings of the Federal High Court, Abuja to keep off.

    Several prominent members of the party were also not in attendance.

    Among them were former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido.

    Saraki had warned that the convention would serve no purpose and declared that he would not be there.

    Lamido had also said he would not be in attendance following alleged decision of the party to block him from purchasing nomination form for the position of national chairman.

    A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday halted the convention and ordered that Lamido be accommodated in the election process.

    Also absent yesterday were Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who was said to be outside the country; Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara; Minority leader in the Senate Abba Moro and Minority leader in the House of Representatives Linda Chinda.

    Besides the expulsion, the convention also dissolved the executives of the party in Rivers, Abia, Imo, Plateau and Enugu states, perceived to be in control of Wike’s supporters.

    The motion for the expulsion was moved by former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Chief Olabode George, while host Governor Seyi Makinde moved for the dissolution of the state EXCOs.

    George said that PDP members were bound by and must adhere to Section 40 of its Constitution as amended.

    According to him, political parties are voluntary organisations and members may wish to join or not.

    “These people above have committed various breaches of the constitution by holding parallel congresses, canvassing votes for other parties, and sponsoring litigations against the party, among others,” he said.

    George said the actions and character of Wike and others had brought ridicule to the party.

    The motion was unanimously supported by party members present at the convention.

    They said the expulsion and dissolution order are in accordance with the Section 33 sub section 2 of the 2017 Constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP).

    Why I can’t align myself with Wike’s expulsion —Fintiri

    In distancing himself from the expulsion of Wike and others yesterday, Governor Fintiri said the party development might worsen its internal tensions.

    The governor in a statement on his verified X account @GovernorAUF last night said:  “I, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State, wish to categorically state that I dissociate myself from the position of expelling the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Wike, from PDP.

    “I believe that this decision is not in the best interest of the party, and I will not be party to any attempt that could further plunge the PDP into unending crisis.

    “As a faithful party member, my position is clear: I stand for the peace and stability of the PDP, and I will not support anything that could lead to its disintegration. I believe that peace and reconciliation are the only ways forward for our great party.

    “I urge all stakeholders to work towards healing the divisions within the party and to strive for unity and cohesion. As a party man, I am committed to supporting efforts that promote peace, stability, and progress within the PDP.

    “Let me reiterate that my position is guided by the desire for peace and reconciliation, and I will continue to work towards achieving this goal.”

    Mutfwang too

    Governor Mutfwang’s position was similar to Fintiri’s.

    The governor in a statement through his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, distanced himself from “the expulsion of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Barr. Nyesom Wike; former governor of Ekiti State Ayodele Fayose and Samuel Anyanwu alongside other leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).”

    He said the matter was “neither discussed by Governors Forum nor at NEC before the motion was presented.”

    He insisted that the proposal did not reflect his position on the matter.

    Governor Mutfwang further noted that expelling the party leaders at this crucial time was not a strategic step towards resolving the internal challenges currently confronting the PDP. He reiterated the need for unity, dialogue, and collective effort in rebuilding and repositioning the party.

    Expulsion illegal, says Bature

    One of the expelled men, Umar Bature faulted it.

    “It’s for their village heads! The convention they claim to be having is illegal null and void,” he said in a short statement.

    He was the PDP national organising secretary and a member of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).

    Mr. Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, said: “When people decide to start their own detty December in November, one can’t but ignore whatever comes out of their mouths.

    “They gathered in Ibadan to do a party, enjoy themselves and got intoxicated. They are free to say anything.”

    Deputy National Youth Leader of the party and PDP NWC member, Timothy Osadolor, said: “Their claim about expelling these persons brings to mind a pertinent question: who is expelling whom? Is it the saboteurs that are now expelling those who are asking that things be done in a sane manner, in accordance with the constitution of the party?

    “No matter how much you try to deodorize a foul-smelling item, it would still emit its true smell; and if you dress up a pig, it would still roll in the mud.

    Read Also: Wike offers 5,000 households free cooking gas cylinder, six-month refill 

    “It is as clear as daylight, and I will say it repeatedly, that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has ambitions that he has not disclosed to other governors and leaders of the party.

    “Otherwise, he cannot claim to be unaware that what he is leading is leaning towards the doom of his presidential ambition—if he has one—and towards doom for the party as well.

    “I have said it again and again that those governors and leaders being led by Governor Seyi Makinde should put on their thinking caps and face the reality that this party is splintered, bleeding, and in need of healing and reconciliation, which can only be done in a non-cantankerous atmosphere where there is sincerity.

    “Let everybody acknowledge that they have erred against one another, and let everyone be truthful to ourselves.

    “The issue of suspending and counter-suspending won’t help the PDP. The lifespan of the current NWC will expire on December 10, and this party will enter a stalemate where there won’t be a legitimate NWC or a legitimate Board of Trustees, or any organ to form a caretaker committee that can midwife the next national convention for the PDP.

    “Therefore, I think it is not too late, and a proper convention can still be held by all stakeholders at an agreed date. Otherwise, this show of shame—where you have only seventeen states being accredited in Ibadan as against the 36 states and the FCT—represents enough embarrassment.

    “Also, INEC has refused to fall for the shenanigans of those who organised the Ibadan early-Christmas party that is ongoing.

    “INEC has done the needful by not being party to the early Christmas show that the Oyo State governor has put up for his friends in the PDP.

    “However, I agree with the view that it is good if he can talk to those in his group so that when they come to Abuja on Monday morning, they can have the grace and clarity of mind to know what to put on the table before PDP leaders who are not party to the owambe going on in Ibadan this weekend.

    “Clearly, they lack the locus, they lack the numbers, and they lack the capacity to do that which they have claimed (about suspending some party members); talk is cheap.”

    A three term member of the House of Representatives and former member of PDP NEC, Hon Teejay Yusuf, however differed.

    His words: “To me, there is something positive that they have achieved for the party; at least, now, everybody in Ibadan has seen banners of PDP and they know that PDP is alive and well.”

    The expelled members were initially suspended for a month two weeks ago for alleged anti-party activities by the Damagum group.

    The Wike group responded by suspending Damagum, Debo Ologunagba, the party’s spokesperson, Taofeek Arapaja, deputy national vice chairman (South), Daniel Woyenguikoro, national financial secretary, Sulaiman Kadade, national youth leader, and Setonji Koshoedo, deputy national secretary.

    The group named the party’s National Vice Chairman (North Central), Mohammed Abdulrahman, as acting national chairman.

    How Damagum was confirmed as National Chair

    The motion for the confirmation of Damagum as national chairman was moved by the

    Chairman of the Edo State chapter of PDP, Hon. Tony Aziegbemi and seconded by Edward Marshal.

    Aziegbemi said this was in accordance with the Section 32 of the Constitution of the PDP as amended.

    Addressing the convention earlier, Governor Makinde and Damagum had called for calm among the delegates.

    Damagum apologised to the gathering that the event started late.

    He said it was an honor for the delegates to have travelled from far places all over Nigeria to be part of the convention, saying the decision shows their commitment to the party.

    In his brief remarks Makinde said the convention would be remembered as one that brought about the party’s  turnaround.

    He also urged the delegates to take advantage of the visit to the state to have a feel of its cuisine and hospitality.

    Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang moved the motion for the dissolution of the Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) to give way for the election of new officers.

    Present at the convention were Governors Makinde (Oyo), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara) , Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa) and Caleb Mutfwang  (Plateau).

    Also there were former Governor of Plateau State Jonah Jang, former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, Chief Tom Ikimi, former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Senators Ahmed Ningi, Chief .Onikepo Oshodi, Deputy National Secretary of PDP Setonji Koshoedo, Chairman of the Damagum faction BoT, Chief Adolphus Wabara, Chief Ben Obi, Chief Segun Adegoke, Chief Omolade Oluwateru, Ladi Adebutu and Senator Natasha  Akpoti.

    The convention was held amid legal fireworks in courts up to the eve of the exercise.

    While a Federal  High Court presided over by Justice Peter Lifu halted the convention, based on the relief sought by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, who claimed that he was excluded from the chairmanship context, an Oyo State  High Court presided over by Justice Ladiran Akintola extended the ex parte order given to the faction till December 8.

    Another  Federal High Court Abuja presided over by Justice James Omotosho had previously ruled that the convention should not be monitored or its outcome be recognised by INEC following the suit instituted by the Wike/Anyanwu faction that the preparations violated the party’s guidelines and the Electoral Act.

    There was tension midway into convention yesterday when the chairman of the Organising Committee, Ahmadu Fintiri, said that he was handicapped due to the absence of INEC officials.

    The Adamawa governor said: “In the absence of INEC, it is not within my purview to go on with the convention. It is up to the delegates to decide.”

    However, Senator Ben Obi, secretary of the convention organising committee, moved a motion that the committee be empowered to proceed with the election by the consent of the delegates, who chorused “yes.”

    After that, Obi said: “I hereby declare that we should hold the convention.”

    Turaki’s candidacy: Kebbi PDP boycotts Ibadan national convention

    The Kebbi State chapter of the PDP said it would not be part of the Ibadan convention.

    The chapter’s Publicity Secretary, Sani Dododo, said the decision was on account of the candidacy of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki.

    The chapter questioned Turaki’s legitimacy as a party member, citing his alleged suspension in April 2023 for what it called gross misconduct, anti-party activities, and failure to pay party dues.

    The suspension, issued by his Nasarawa 1 Ward, also affected seven other members, including former gubernatorial candidate Gen. Bello S. Yaki.

    In a petition dated October 25, 2025, the Kebbi State PDP formally notified the chairman of the screening committee for the national convention of its rejection of Turaki’s nomination based on these issues.

    The petition, jointly signed by Chairman Alhaji Usman Bello Suru and Secretary Abubakar Bawa Kalgo, included a list of signatures and phone numbers from both the state working committee and non-working committee members, all expressing their opposition to Turaki’s candidacy.

    The Kebbi PDP chapter warned that anyone presenting themselves as a delegate from the state would be doing so without the party’s authorisation.

    All delegates from Kebbi State reportedly stayed at home in protest.

    BoT rejects own Reconciliation Committee report, rejects Caretaker Committee

    The Board of Trustees of the Damagum faction yesterday disowned the report of the Reconciliation Committee it set up to find a lasting solution to crisis in  the party

    The BoT specifically rejected  the committee’s recommendation that the convention be shelved .

    It said the convention must proceed as planned and  in line with the Supreme Court judgment that the affairs of political parties are their internet affairs.

    According to him, the report of the six-man committee headed by Amb. Hassan Adamu has not been discussed and adopted by the board, and therefore cannot be taken as the official position of the BoT.

    The statement: “The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hereby categorically dissociates and distances itself from the purported Report of the BoT Reconciliation Committee being circulated in some section of the media.

    “The BoT states in clear terms that the content of the said Report is not and does not represent the official position of the Board. Having not been considered or adopted by the BoT, it cannot in any form or guise whatsoever be regarded as the position of the BoT.

    “The BoT is unwavering in its endorsement of the conduct of the elective National Convention as scheduled on Saturday, 15th to Sunday, 16th November, 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State capital for the purpose of electing new set of leaders to pilot the affairs of the party in the next four years.

    “This position is guided by the Judgment of the Supreme Court which reaffirmed the supremacy of a political party in the conduct of its internal affairs.

    “In that regard, the BoT rejects any suggestion for a Caretaker Committee for the party. Such idea cannot be contemplated as the Board and, of course the PDP, have irreversibly decided for an elective National Convention which is within the scope of the internal affairs of the party to which the courts have no jurisdiction.

    “The BoT therefore urges Party members to remain committed and focused on the success of the Elective National Convention.”

    The latest implosion in the PDP is the second major of such development in the party’s history; the first being that of 2014 when such prominent members as former vice president Atiku Abubakar, Dr.Bukola Saraki, Mr.Rotimi Amaechi pulled out of the party.

    The group known as N-PDP and led by Alhaji Kawu Baraje teamed up with the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The APC presidential candidate, the late General Muhammadu Buhari, went on to win the 2015 presidential election, defeating Dr. Goodluck Jonathan of the PDP.  

  • Turaki may emerge unopposed as PDP National Chairman

    Turaki may emerge unopposed as PDP National Chairman

    Arapaja to emerge National Secretary 

    Pending the official announcement, a former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, may be elected unopposed as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    Another leading aspirant for the position, Senator Yakubu Lado, announced withdrawal from the race.

    Also a former Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja will emerge as the party’s national Secretary.

    No fewer than 3,000 delegates are attending the ongoing elective convention at the main bowl of the Lekan Salami stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan. 

    The election proper began shortly as Senator Ben Obi announced the processes to guide the conduct of the delegates for the elections around 7:10pm.

    The delegates are drawn from the across the States of the Federation and the FCT Abuja.

    Until Lado’s announcement, many had thought Turaki was the only candidate vying for the chairmanship position of the party 

    With this development, the delegates through their votes may unanimously adopt Turaki as the Chairman of the party. 

    Turaki was adopted as the consensus candidate by Northern PDP stakeholders for the chairmanship position ahead of the national convention.

    Read Also: SWDC MD: how Nigeria can transform through business, policy collaboration

    Lado, a former Senator representing Katsina South, it was gathered, also obtained a nomination form to contest for the position of PDP National Chairman. 

    However, he told the delegates on Saturday that he was withdrawing from the race for zoning purpose.

    Senator Obi also announced that the position of the office of the National Youth Leader will be stepped down during the convention.

    According to the announcement, only the position of the Deputy National Organising Secretary has three contestants, the other position he announced are non-contesting.

    As of the time of this report, six States including: Abia, Zamfara, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom and Taraba have voted.

    The official announcement of the winners are expected as soon as the ongoing elections are concluded.

  • JUST IN: PDP’s faction expels Wike, Fayose, eight others

    JUST IN: PDP’s faction expels Wike, Fayose, eight others

    The Umar Damagun-led Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) has expelled FCT Minister Nyesom Wike;  former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose and eight others over alleged anti-party activities.

    Others expelled include: the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu,  Bature, Adeyemi Ajibade, SAN, Mohammed Abdulrahman, Mao Ohuabunwa, Austin Nwachukwu, George Turner, Abraham Amali and Dan Orbi

    Also, the party has dissolved the executives of the party in Rivers, Abia, Imo, Plateau and Enugu States.

    The motions to this effect were moved by.member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) Chief Bode George and Oyo Governor, Seyi Makinde at the ongoing PDP Elective National Convention in Ibadan.

    While George moved for the sack of the party chieftains, Makinde moved for the dissolution of the affected state excos.

    They said the expulsion and dissolution order are in accordance with the Section 33 sub section 2 of the 2017 Constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).