Notable figures of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have converged on the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja for a convention organised by the faction loyal to Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyseom Wike.
The convention is being closely monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), represented by two National Commissioners – Prof Sani Adams (SAN) and Dr Ken Ukeagu.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Governor of Jigawa State Sule Lamido, and former Governor of Gombe State Ibrahim Dankwanbo are among those in attendance. Other notable figures include Senate Minority leader Abba Morro, Mao Ohabunwa, and former Benue Governor Samuel Ortom.
The convention has drawn a large turnout, with over 2,000 delegates from the 36 states of the federation and the FCT already seated. The Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyseom Wike, arrived the venue at about 7:25pm, accompanied by some party leaders, including Abdulraman Mohammed and Ohuabunwa.
Nyseom Wike's faction of the PDP has managed to attract a heavyweight lineup of supporters, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Governor of Jigawa State Sule Lamido. The presence of these notable figures underscores the faction's determination to assert its influence within the party. However, the convention's legitimacy remains uncertain, given the faction's disputed status within the PDP. The Independent National Electoral Commission's monitoring of the convention is a crucial aspect, as it raises questions about the commission's role in the party's internal politics. Ultimately, the outcome of this convention will have significant implications for the PDP's future and the country's political landscape.
