Dare Babalola
Abdulrahman Mohammed and Samuel Anyanwu have been confirmed as the new National Chairman and National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), following a consensus-driven process at the party’s 2026 national convention in Abuja.
The convention, held on Sunday at the Moshood Abiola Stadium velodrome, produced a 21-member National Working Committee (NWC), with Mohammed and Anyanwu emerging alongside other party officials. The exercise was widely seen as being influenced by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Prominent figures within the PDP, including former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido, ex-Senate President Bukola Saraki, and former Kaduna State governor Ahmed Makarfi, were present at the gathering.
Addressing delegates, Wike described the convention as a turning point for the party, declaring that internal reconciliation efforts were already underway. He dismissed concerns about the PDP’s electoral future, insisting the party would participate fully in the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the convention held in Abuja represents the legitimate and recognised gathering of the party, noting that it was conducted under the watch of the electoral authorities.
Wike also stressed the need for inclusiveness in rebuilding the party, urging members to embrace unity and equal participation. He commended party faithful for remaining steadfast despite internal disputes and pledged that the PDP would reclaim its political strength.
He praised loyal members for their resilience during the party’s turbulent period, noting that their commitment had kept the PDP intact amid leadership struggles and defections.
In his acceptance remarks, Mohammed signalled a shift toward unity, promising to run an open and inclusive administration. He called on members to move past divisions and focus on rebuilding the party ahead of the next general elections.
He described the convention as more than just a leadership contest, saying it marked a moment of renewal after a period defined by disagreements and legal battles.
“This is a time for reflection, responsibility, and rebuilding,” he told delegates, adding that the PDP was determined to reposition itself rather than dwell on past challenges.
Also speaking, Okezie Ikpeazu, chairman of the convention planning committee, disclosed that over 2,000 delegates attended the event. He assured members that reconciliation efforts would continue even after the convention, emphasising that the party remains open to aggrieved stakeholders.
The PDP has faced prolonged internal tensions in recent months, particularly over its leadership structure, making the outcome of the convention a critical step in its efforts to stabilise and prepare for future elections.
