Weeks ahead of its national convention, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faces renewed internal tension as former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, rejected the endorsement of Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as the party’s consensus candidate for National Chairman.
The disagreement threatens to escalate into a legal battle, even as Turaki’s supporters continue their campaign. The development follows the party’s suspension of aspirant screenings for the 2025 Elective National Convention, originally set for Tuesday, citing unforeseen circumstances.
Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State and Chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC), announced the postponement on Monday, assuring that a new date would be communicated. He stressed that the committee remains committed to ensuring a transparent and credible process ahead of the convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Lamido, after failing to access the nomination forms at the PDP secretariat in Abuja, threatened legal action if denied the opportunity to contest. He claimed that neither the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, nor National Organising Secretary, Umaru Bature, had knowledge of the forms’ location. Lamido emphasized that the consensus arrangement was reached without proper consultation, undermining the party’s constitutionally mandated processes.
He expressed commitment to rebuilding the PDP into a stable, disciplined party capable of winning elections, stating: “If there are consultations, there can be consensus. But if there are no consultations, then we are not united. That’s the problem.”
Meanwhile, Turaki, who has been endorsed as the North-West consensus candidate by northern governors led by Fintiri, formally submitted his nomination forms. His camp insists the endorsement followed proper consultations with stakeholders across the North. Turaki pledged to promote fairness, discipline, and stability within the party if elected.
A PDP chieftain and ally of Turaki, Umar Sani, presented an acknowledgment slip confirming the submission of Turaki’s forms, clarifying that Lamido had sought forms on the wrong day. He added that Turaki is not aligned with any faction and remains independent, experienced, and committed to unifying the party.
The unfolding drama highlights persistent internal divisions within the PDP, with key figures supporting different candidates, including Minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike, reportedly backing former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom. The party now faces the challenge of resolving these disputes to ensure a smooth convention.
_1761401469.jpeg)
0 Comments