The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-South zone, Emmanuel Ogidi, has reaffirmed that the suspension of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, and other party chieftains remains valid.
Speaking, Ogidi said the party leadership is currently engaging prominent political figures across the country to reaffirm the PDP’s relevance and unity amid its internal challenges.
“So we’re doing the rounds. We have already seen a former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, and a former President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB). It’s all about seeing those who are important in Nigeria to tell them that we are alive and we’re moving,” Ogidi said.
He disclosed that the party also plans to meet with former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, as well as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, stressing that both men remain important figures in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“Yes, we also have plans to see Peter Obi. Even Atiku Abubakar, as a former vice president of the country, we are going to meet him. You see, PDP is the real face of democracy in Nigeria,” he added.
Obi and Atiku, both former members of the PDP, served as the party’s vice-presidential and presidential candidates respectively in 2019. Atiku also flew the PDP’s flag in the 2023 presidential election. However, both politicians have since joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) paid a visit to former President Goodluck Jonathan at his office in Maitama, Abuja. The delegation was led by the PDP National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, alongside other party leaders.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Turaki said Jonathan reassured the party of his continued loyalty and commitment to its growth.
“He has assured us that he remains an active, card-carrying member of the PDP and feels obliged to support the party. The PDP has done enough for him, and he will try his best to do more for the party,” Turaki said.
He described the former president’s remarks as “very reassuring and encouraging,” especially as the party prepares for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections.
The PDP, which governed Nigeria from 1999 to 2015, has been grappling with internal crises since losing the 2023 general elections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Currently, the party is split into two factions, each laying claim to national leadership following a controversial convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State. The convention culminated in the expulsion of high-profile figures, including Wike and Fayose, further deepening the party’s internal rift.
