As the Peoples Democratic Party gears up for its National Convention on November 15, top stakeholders are advocating a consensus approach to selecting its next chairman.
Veteran political figures such as Professor Jerry Gana, Kawu Baraje, and former Kaduna Governor Ahmed Makarfi are reportedly eyeing the role.
Meanwhile, acting National Chairman Umar Damagum is also seeking confirmation in the substantive position.
“Damagum is also reportedly plotting to retain the position as substantive National Chairman,” a source familiar with the process revealed on condition of anonymity.
With factional fault lines still healing following recent internal strife, a consensus route is seen as a pathway to restore unity.
NEC Divided: Consensus vs Contest
At the party’s 101st NEC meeting on July 24, the plan to elect 19 new national officers was formalized under the amended constitution, Part X, Section 33 (2–5J).
While some NEC members insist on “credible and competent individuals with proven track records”, others favour consensus to avoid renewed turmoil.
A source said, “Some of our leaders… have expressed concerns that regardless of zoning formula, consensus should be adopted at both zonal and national levels to preserve the unity of the party.”
However, dissenting voices within NEC worry that consensus may stifle individual democratic aspirations.
Deputy Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor argued: “Consensus is a dangerous democratic right… Let anybody who believes he or she is qualified market their manifesto to the delegates.”
FCT Minister Flags Regional Tensions at Play
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike cautioned that unresolved disputes in the South-South and South-East could derail the convention.
Wike called for due recognition of Senator Samuel Anyanwu—confirmed as National Secretary following the Calabar congess—and Chief Dan Orbih as South-South Vice Chairman.
“If they don’t agree, that’s another round of crisis,” he warned, urging resolutions before November.
Wike also demanded clarity on the status of expelled South-East vice-chairman Ali Odefa.
“These matters must be corrected before convention—or expectations could shatter the process.”
With the tenure of current officeholders expiring by December, the timetable for nomination, screening, and election was released by National Organising Secretary Umar Bature.
From September 3 to 30, forms will be sold, screened, and delegates prepared. Party insiders say the success or failure of this convention could decide PDP’s future ahead of the 2027 elections.
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