PDP
By Ab Susan
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convention, scheduled for November 15-16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, is facing uncertainty due to a deepening rift among party leaders over zoning of party offices and the 2027 presidential ticket. A recent meeting, dubbed the “PDP Southern Zoning Consultative Summit,” was held in Lagos, but several southern stakeholders have disowned the gathering, citing exclusion and manipulation.
The meeting proposed a micro-zoning formula for party offices and the presidential ticket among the Southwest, Southeast, and South-South, but this has been met with resistance from various quarters. Prominent figures, including state chairmen, national officers, principal lawmakers, and former governors from the South-South and South-East, were deliberately sidelined from the meeting, leading to widespread criticism.
The exclusion of key stakeholders has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the proposed zoning arrangement. Critics argue that the meeting was not representative of the party’s southern stakeholders and that the outcome may not reflect the interests of the party as a whole.
Governor Seyi Makinde has defended the micro-zoning proposal, stressing that the outcome would be forwarded to the National Executive Committee (NEC) for consideration. However, other party leaders have expressed reservations about the proposal, citing concerns about its potential impact on the party’s internal dynamics.
House of Representatives Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, has disowned the Lagos meeting, describing it as unconstitutional, divisive, and lacking legitimacy. Chinda’s reaction reflects the growing discontent among party leaders who feel that the zoning arrangement is being manipulated to favor certain interests.
The PDP’s internal crisis could weaken the party’s chances in the 2027 elections if not resolved. The party’s leaders are working to find a solution, but the exclusion of key stakeholders and disagreements over zoning arrangements have created significant challenges. Sources warn that if the rift is not properly managed, it could lead to a parallel convention, further complicating the party’s internal dynamics.
Nyesom Wike’s camp has also rejected the zoning talks, potentially further complicating the party’s internal dynamics. The rejection by Wike’s camp may escalate tensions within the party and make it more challenging to find a solution that works for all stakeholders.
The PDP’s convention is just around the corner, and the party’s leaders must find a way to resolve their differences and present a united front. The party’s ability to manage its internal conflicts and find a solution that works for all stakeholders will be crucial in determining its chances in the 2027 elections.
