Wike Denies Knowledge of PDP’s Ibadan Convention, Signals Potential Party Crisis

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, Wike, a prominent PDP member and National Executive Committee (NEC) member, stated, “I’m not aware there is going to be any PDP convention in Ibadan in November,” questioning whether the NEC had formally approved the event. 

Wike’s remarks come amid tensions with the PDP leadership, particularly over the party’s refusal to recognize the South-South zonal congress that elected Chief Dan Orbih as National Vice Chairman. 

Wike insisted that the Calabar congress must be upheld, warning that failure to address this could spark another crisis before the convention. 

“I am not part of it until they have corrected it. Let us wait, there is still time for them to resolve it,” he said, hinting at further action if his demands are unmet. 

The PDP, however, remains steadfast, with National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba dismissing Wike’s claims and affirming that preparations for the Ibadan convention are on track. 

Ologunagba emphasized that the 110-member National Convention Organising Committee, chaired by Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, is actively working on logistics, with subcommittees ensuring inclusivity across all party organs. 

“The PDP is ready for Ibadan. This will showcase our capacity to defend democracy,” he stated, rejecting speculations of a parallel convention as “baseless.” 

Wike’s absence from the organizing committee and his ongoing feud with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, whose state will host the convention, have fueled speculation of a deeper rift. 

Analysts suggest the Ibadan convention could be a battleground for control between Wike and Makinde, once allies in the G5 group but now at odds following the 2023 elections. 

The convention, set to elect new National Working Committee members, is seen as critical for the PDP’s unity and 2027 election strategy. 

PDP stakeholders have urged reconciliation, with Ologunagba stressing the party’s commitment to its constitution and zero tolerance for anti-party activities. 

“We demand total loyalty from all members,” he said, noting that a caretaker committee led by Elder Emma Ogidi has replaced the expired South-South Zonal Committee, addressing Wike’s concerns.