Leaders Insist on Reconciliation, Legal Compliance Before Proceeding
A faction aligned with PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu has called on the Ambassador Ilyas Damagum-led leadership to honor the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) Reconciliation Committee findings and suspend plans for the national convention scheduled for November 15–16, deeming it legally unsustainable amid multiple court restrictions.
As of Friday, three Federal High Courts in Abuja had issued injunctions barring the PDP from convening, while an Oyo State High Court adjourned related proceedings to December 8.
At a Friday press conference in Abuja, South-South Zonal Secretary Bar. George Turna, joined by Abia State PDP Chairman Hon. Amah Abraham and Imo State Chairman Hon. Austin Nwachukwu, urged adherence to the court rulings, full implementation of the BoT report, and strict legal observance.
The group advocated restoring constitutional governance, resolving internal rifts, and convening a legitimate convention only after these steps. They referenced Justice Omotosho’s ruling, now under appeal, noting that appellate proceedings mandate preserving the status quo. “Proceeding with the convention would defy the law,” they asserted, also citing Justice Lifu’s recent decision on exclusions.
They maintained that no valid PDP convention can occur, as declarations from the Acting National Chairman and National Secretary—the sole authorities for notices—have precluded any such event nationwide.
“The BoT report, as the party’s moral compass, must be actioned promptly to address grievances and stabilize operations,” the spokespersons said, highlighting widespread frustration over disarray.
Formed on November 5, 2025, the BoT Reconciliation Committee aimed to settle disputes and facilitate a peaceful convention, recommending delays until court clearances and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) endorsements are obtained amid legal hurdles.
The faction pushed for an inclusive Caretaker Committee, warning that a flawed convention risks nullifying PDP candidacies across the country. They implored the National Working Committee (NWC) to suspend actions, revoke bans, and pursue authentic unity.
Emphasizing the BoT’s mediating role and constitutional fidelity, they opposed pending amendments—like elevating the Governors’ Forum to organ status—until harmony is restored. The group appealed to the BoT, NWC, Governors’ Forum, and stakeholders to iron out differences for a transparent, lawful process, cautioning that inaction could exacerbate fractures and undermine the party’s viability.
