Assures Readiness for National Convention
Amid a spate of defections by key figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the opposition party has accused the ruling party of instigating the exodus through intimidation, coercion, and blackmail.
The PDP, however, insists it remains undeterred as it intensifies preparations for its much-anticipated National Convention, scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Briefing journalists at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba described the defections as politically motivated distractions aimed at weakening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to internal democracy and readiness for the national convention.
“It’s a good question because it shows Nigerians are paying attention. But the fact that stories of defections are gaining traction shows we are the party to watch,” Ologunagba said in response to questions about governors leaving the party.
He maintained that the PDP, as the “only truly democratic party in Nigeria”, remains rooted in the will of the people and built on enduring ideals rather than personalities.
“We have seen vice presidents, even former presidents, leave this party. Yet the PDP remains. That’s because it is an institution grounded in democratic principles and driven by the convictions of its members,” he said.
Ologunagba noted that while the party was concerned about the defections, it was not discouraged, stressing that the November convention represents a rallying point for unity and renewal.
“The train for the 2025 elective convention of the PDP, figuratively speaking, has arrived in Ibadan. Our subcommittees are on ground, the venue committee is active, and the security committee has met. We are moving with purpose,” he said.
He also condemned the APC’s alleged involvement in enticing PDP members, invoking a biblical metaphor:
“The Egyptians you see today, you shall see no more. The APC, orchestrating all of this, will be gone by 2027.”
At a meeting of the subcommittees, Chairperson of the PDP Convention’s Entertainment and Welfare Committee, Senator Natasha Apoti, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to delivering an inclusive, vibrant and culturally rich convention.
Addressing members drawn from across the country, Apoti highlighted the crucial role of entertainment and welfare in shaping public perception of the national gathering.
“You were carefully selected from all states of our dear country. Your role is not just about food and music, but about presenting the best of Nigeria to the nation and the world,” she said.
She emphasised the importance of cultural inclusion, stressing that every region must be represented in the festivities. The committee, she said, would ensure traditional performances, cuisine, and other displays reflect Nigeria’s diversity.
“Oyo State, as host, will be expected to showcase its rich cultural heritage. But every other state must also participate. Let us show respect to all tribes and all religions. Let Nigeria see its best through us,” Apoti said.
To promote youth engagement, Apoti announced a music challenge to encourage participation from states across the federation.
“I will personally put out a challenge tomorrow for musical entries from my state. The best entry will receive a cash prize and a performance slot at the convention,” she said, urging other states and party organs to follow suit.
She also encouraged members to flood social media with innovative, culturally grounded content, noting that engagement should extend beyond the two-day event.
“Party growth comes with new participation. Many Nigerians have turned 18 since the last convention — they’re looking for a party to believe in. We must be that party,” she said.
Apoti concluded by highlighting the need to embrace new ideas and visions, describing the convention as an opportunity to project the PDP as the platform of choice for Nigeria’s youth.
