Wike Dismisses Turaki-Led PDP Supreme Court Appeal as Baseless Ahead of National Convention

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has rejected the decision by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Tanimu Turaki, to approach the Supreme Court over the party’s leadership dispute. Speaking on Friday night in Abuja, Wike described the planned appeal as “baseless” and insisted it would not disrupt preparations for the party’s national convention.

The minister made the remarks after inspecting facilities at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, the designated venue for the PDP National Convention scheduled for March 29 and 30. His comments come amid ongoing internal disagreements within the PDP, highlighting tensions between different leadership blocs.

Internal Dispute Deepens as Appeal Heads to Supreme Court

The Turaki-led PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) had earlier ratified the decision of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to challenge a Court of Appeal ruling at the Supreme Court. The move signals a continuation of the leadership tussle that has affected the PDP’s cohesion in recent months.

However, Wike dismissed the legal action as inconsequential, arguing that it would not affect the conduct of the national convention. According to him, the PDP remains focused on moving forward despite disagreements among its members.

Wike acknowledged that internal conflicts are inevitable in large political organisations, noting that dissatisfaction among some members should not overshadow the broader goals of the party. Wike emphasized the need for dialogue, stating that efforts would be made to engage aggrieved members and address their concerns after the convention.

PDP Convention Preparations Near Completion

Wike confirmed that preparations for the PDP National Convention were almost complete, estimating readiness at about 95 per cent. He noted that logistical arrangements, including seating for delegates from all states and the VIP section, had been finalized.

The inspection visit to the stadium was aimed at ensuring that all facilities meet the required standards ahead of the high-profile gathering. Party officials are expected to converge in Abuja to deliberate on leadership and strategic direction ahead of future elections.

The convention is seen as a crucial step in stabilising the party’s internal structure and projecting unity, especially following months of factional disagreements. Despite the ongoing dispute, party leaders appear determined to proceed without disruption.

Zoning Strategy and 2027 Electoral Ambitions

Addressing questions on zoning, Wike revealed that key party positions had already been allocated across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. According to him, the presidency has been zoned to the South, while the chairmanship is reserved for the North.

He expressed confidence that the zoning arrangement would simplify the selection process and reduce internal friction. Wike also highlighted what he described as a shift from the traditional “unity list” approach, suggesting that the party is now presenting a more cohesive front.

Looking ahead, the minister projected optimism about the PDP’s prospects in the 2027 general elections. He stated that the party would demonstrate its strength and capacity to compete effectively on the national stage, describing it as a broad platform capable of accommodating diverse interests.