PDP Denies Conducting South South Zonal Congress, Cautions Against Unauthorized Gathering in Calabar

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has firmly denied claims that it conducted its South South Zonal Congress in Calabar, Cross River State. The party dismissed reports of the gathering as false, stating that it had no involvement in the event.

In an official statement, the PDP clarified that no zonal congress has taken place and called on party members, security agencies, and the media to disregard any claims suggesting otherwise. The party also warned against recognizing any outcome from the Calabar meeting, emphasizing that any official congress would be duly communicated through its authorized channels.

PDP Postpones South South Zonal Congress for Further Consultations

The party disclosed that its National Working Committee (NWC), in a meeting held on Thursday, February 20, 2025, decided to postpone the South South Zonal Congress. The decision was taken in line with the party’s constitution, citing the need for further consultations to ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process.

The NWC referred to Section 29(2)(b) of the PDP Constitution, which empowers it to act on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC) in emergencies. Additionally, Section 31(2)(c) mandates the NEC to supervise and direct the work of the party and its organs, including zonal structures. The party stressed that these constitutional provisions justified the postponement, which was aimed at maintaining internal stability.

Legal Basis for PDP’s Decision

The PDP further reinforced its stance by referencing Section 31(2)(j) of its constitution, which grants the NEC the authority to regulate elections and selection processes within the party. The NWC reiterated that it had the exclusive power to set dates for zonal congresses and that no unauthorized individuals or groups could conduct party elections on its behalf.

By postponing the congress, the PDP seeks to avoid internal conflicts and legal disputes that could arise from an improperly organized election. The party assured members that a new date would be announced in due course, following extensive consultations with stakeholders.

Warning to Party Members and Security Agencies

In light of the unauthorized gathering in Calabar, the PDP issued a stern warning to its members across the South South zone. It advised party faithful to remain patient and await an official communication regarding the congress.

The party also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the media to disregard any resolutions, appointments, or electoral outcomes that may have emerged from the Calabar event. It emphasized that such gatherings had no legal or constitutional backing and should not be recognized as a legitimate PDP function.

Commendation for South South Governors and Stakeholders

Despite the controversy, the PDP took the opportunity to appreciate the governors and stakeholders of the South South region for their continued loyalty and commitment to the party. The NWC specifically praised them for their role in maintaining unity and stability within the region.

The party assured its members that it remains committed to conducting a transparent and inclusive zonal congress at a later date. It encouraged all stakeholders to stay united and work towards strengthening the PDP ahead of future elections.

The PDP reaffirmed its dedication to due process, internal democracy, and party discipline, assuring members that the postponed South South Zonal Congress would be held in a manner that upholds the principles of fairness and transparency.