PDP Crisis: Wike Faction Claims Saraki, Lamido Backing, Insists on Convention

PDP Crisis: Wike Faction Claims Saraki, Lamido Backing, Insists on Convention

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a fresh turn on Saturday as a faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declared that its planned national convention would proceed as scheduled, boasting of support from key party figures.

The group said its ranks had been strengthened by the involvement of former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido, among other stakeholders.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, dismissed reports suggesting that a court injunction could halt the convention slated for Sunday, March 29.

“Any reports or insinuations you refer to are things we are only seeing on social media. By the grace of God, on March 29, the convention will hold as scheduled,” he said.

Mohammed maintained that the faction’s process differs from previous disputed gatherings, insisting that the planned convention is backed by law and enjoys the support of a majority of party members.

“In our case, we have the full backing of the courts, the law, and the members of the party. Individuals such as Bukola Saraki, who had not initially aligned with any bloc, will be present tomorrow, along with Sule Lamido and many others,” he stated.

He added that several senators, members of the National Assembly, and other key stakeholders who had previously remained neutral were now backing the faction, describing it as the dominant bloc within the party.

While acknowledging internal disagreements, Mohammed said dissenting members were entitled to their positions but insisted the party had taken a clear direction.

The spokesman also affirmed that all constitutional and procedural requirements had been met, assuring party faithful of a credible and transparent exercise.

According to him, the National Caretaker Working Committee had put in place measures to ensure a smooth, peaceful, and inclusive convention reflective of the party’s collective aspirations.

He further urged members to remain calm amid tensions, warning against attempts to disrupt the process while reiterating that avenues for reconciliation remain open.

The PDP has been grappling with internal divisions in recent months, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s leadership and direction ahead of future electoral contests.