PDP Convention in Danger as Party Suddenly Stops Screening

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been thrown into confusion following the abrupt suspension of its planned screening exercise for aspirants ahead of the 2025 Elective National Convention. The screening, which was earlier scheduled to take place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, was halted due to what the party described as “unforeseen circumstances.”[irp]

The decision has generated mixed reactions among members and heightened concerns over possible internal conflicts threatening the unity of Nigeria’s main opposition party. The convention, less than a month away, is seen as a crucial step in repositioning the PDP for future elections, but the sudden suspension has raised fears that deep-seated divisions and power struggles may be undermining preparations.[irp]

Adding to the tension, former Jigawa State Governor and ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Sule Lamido, publicly expressed anger and disappointment over his inability to obtain the nomination form for the position of National Chairman. Lamido, a founding member of the PDP, accused the party leadership of deliberately denying him access to the process and vowed to seek legal redress if his constitutional right to contest was violated.[irp]

His frustration was further fueled by reports that another aspirant, former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), successfully obtained and submitted his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms the same day. This development, according to party insiders, deepened suspicion that the leadership may be selectively favoring certain aspirants.

Meanwhile, the crisis within the PDP appears to be escalating as over 20 federal lawmakers elected on the party’s platform have reportedly threatened to defect. The lawmakers are alleging that the party leadership is plotting to impose a candidate linked to an All Progressives Congress (APC) governor as the next National Woman Leader — a move they say would amount to betrayal of the party’s core values.[irp]

In a statement issued by Ahmadu Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State and Chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC), the PDP announced that the screening had been put on hold indefinitely. Fintiri said a new date would be communicated to aspirants and stakeholders once pending issues are resolved.

“The National Convention Organising Committee, NCOC, of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has put on hold the screening of aspirants for the 2025 Elective National Convention, earlier scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, 2025, due to unforeseen circumstances,” the statement read.[irp]

While the party did not specify the reason for the postponement, Fintiri appealed for patience and understanding among aspirants and members, assuring them that the committee remained committed to delivering a transparent, credible, and hitch-free convention process.

He added: “A new date will be communicated once fixed. The NCOC regrets any inconveniences caused by the postponement. All aspirants and members of our party should note the foregoing and be guided accordingly.”

Political observers believe the suspension and the growing internal disputes could affect the PDP’s image and readiness ahead of the 2025 convention. Many within the party are calling for immediate intervention by senior stakeholders to prevent further divisions and ensure a smooth transition of leadership.[irp]

Despite the uncertainties, Fintiri maintained that the committee’s priority remains to uphold fairness and integrity throughout the process, assuring that all aspirants will be given equal opportunity to participate once screening resumes.