The crisis surrounding the upcoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention intensified on Monday as former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, announced his intention to pursue legal action after being unable to obtain a nomination form for the national chairmanship position.
Lamido’s frustration stems from the party’s endorsement of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as the consensus candidate, a decision that has sparked discontent within the party ahead of the convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Adding to the turmoil, a Federal High Court in Abuja is set to rule on October 30 regarding a suit aimed at halting the convention, filed by state party chairmen loyal to Nyesom Wike, a prominent critic of the current convention plans. The situation is further complicated by allegations of forgery made by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the party’s National Secretary, regarding documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Lamido criticized the party’s nomination process as manipulated, stating that there were no adequate consultations with stakeholders from his region, the North West. He expressed his determination to seek judicial recourse if he remains unable to acquire the nomination form.
Despite his threats, PDP leaders have dismissed Lamido’s concerns, asserting that they will not allow dissenting voices to disrupt preparations for the convention. The party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, emphasized the importance of moving forward and maintaining focus on party unity.
While Lamido struggles to obtain his form, Turaki has successfully submitted his nomination documents, with his supporters contending that all processes were followed correctly. The situation highlights the ongoing divisions within the PDP, particularly between factions aligned with Wike and those supporting northern governors.
As tensions rise, the call for a reconciliation committee within the PDP has emerged, aiming to address grievances and unify the party ahead of the critical convention.
