Damagun, Gana, Baraje, Makarfi Emerge Frontrunners In Tight Race For Nat’l Chairmanship Position Of PDP
By The9jaTREND
As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gears up for its National Convention scheduled for November 15, a fierce battle is already brewing for the party’s top leadership seat. Former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana; ex-National Chairman, Kawu Baraje; and former Kaduna State Governor, Ahmed Makarfi, have emerged as major contenders for the office of National Chairman of the party
Insider source revealed under condition of anonymity that the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, is also making strategic moves to secure the position in a substantive capacity. However, with the PDP recently emerging from a prolonged leadership crisis, many stakeholders are pushing for a consensus approach to avert further crisis in the party.
Calls for Competence Amidst Leadership Crisis
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party has called for credible, competent individuals with proven track records to contest, though opinions remain divided over the idea of a consensus candidate.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has warned that unresolved issues – particularly concerning leadership in the South-South and South-East zones – could derail the upcoming convention. Wike also expressed concerns over the rejection of the zonal congresses that produced Chief Dan Orbih and the expulsion of Ali Odefa as South-East Zonal Chairman.
“If these matters are not resolved before the convention, another crisis is imminent,” Wike cautioned during a media briefing in Abuja.
APC Spokesperson Mocks PDP’s Readiness
Meanwhile, the Director of Publicity for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bala Ibrahim, dismissed the upcoming PDP convention, stating that internal wrangling may mark the final collapse of the party.
“The PDP is fractured and hospitalised. The likelihood of a peaceful, fruitful convention is slim. This may be the end of the PDP,” Ibrahim said.
PDP Moves to Reorganize Ahead of 2027
The convention follows a decision at the party’s 101st NEC meeting on July 24 to elect 19 new members into the National Working Committee (NWC), whose tenure will expire in December. According to the PDP’s amended 2027 Constitution, the National Convention is the party’s highest policy-making body, empowered to elect officers, formulate policies, and amend the Constitution.
Sources confirm that all stakeholders have agreed to the November timeline, with machinery already in place to ensure the event proceeds as scheduled. However, zoning and consensus are expected to play critical roles in shaping the race.
Support for Consensus Divides Party Leaders
While some party leaders support a consensus arrangement to prevent fresh crises, others argue that such an approach could stifle democratic competition.
Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, argued that all qualified party members should be free to contest, warning against using consensus to suppress legitimate aspirations.
“Consensus is a dangerous democratic right. Let aspirants sell their manifestos and let delegates decide,” he said.
However, former Deputy Publicity Secretary, Diran Odeyemi, and ex-National Vice Chairman, Eddy Olafeso, expressed support for a consensus arrangement, describing it as the most viable route to party stability.
“The PDP needs healing. Let us not inflame new tensions. Consensus, if done transparently, will preserve unity,” Olafeso said.
Wike Insists on Recognising Zonal Congresses
FCT Minister Wike reiterated that the party must recognize the congress held in Calabar that elected Chief Dan Orbih as South-South Vice Chairman. He also demanded that the party acknowledge the court-ordered expulsion of Ali Odefa from the South-East.
“If they want another round of crisis, they should ignore the Calabar congress. But if they want peace, they must do the right thing,” Wike warned.
Convention Timetable Released
The PDP National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, has confirmed that preparations for the convention are in top gear. According to the official timetable, the sale of Nomination and Expression of Interest forms will begin on September 3. Submission closes on September 22, and screening of aspirants will take place on September 30.
Looking Ahead
With Gana, Baraje, Makarfi, and Damagum all jostling for the party’s top job, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the PDP’s path forward. Whether through consensus or open contest, the outcome of the convention may define the opposition party’s prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections. (Punch)
