- Safiu Kehinde
The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) Elective National Convention has official kicked off with over 3,000 delegates and stakeholders storming the Lekan Salami stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan, Oyo state.
Defying the series of litigations surrounding the organisation of the convention, the party loyalists on Saturday trooped out in numbers to witness the commencement of the two-day convention.
According to a statement announcing the kick-off of the convention on its X handle, the PDP disclosed that over 3,000 delegates, governors, National Executive Committee (NEC) members, Board of Trustees (BoT), and esteemed stakeholders from across the nation’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have arrived at the venue.
In what it described as the dawn of a new era, the PDP maintained that the convention served as a moment of renewal, unity, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles that have defined the party since its founding.
Reacting to the litigations filed against the conduct of the convention, the PDP held that it remains resolute in proceeding with the convention.
The party said the convention is underway with party loyalists and observers in attendance.
This, according to the statement, underscored the PDP’s adherence to the rule of law and electoral integrity.
“Despite attempts by detractors to sow discord, the PDP stands resolute, proceeding with this convention as a testament to our resilience and dedication to internal democracy.
“The event, spanning November 15-16, will culminate in the election of a dynamic new National Working Committee (NWC), including a National Chairman, to steer the party toward victory in the 2027 general elections.
“Seamless processes ensuring inclusivity, with drummers, dancers, and cultural displays celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.
“The convention proceeds under the watchful eyes of party loyalists and observers, underscoring the PDP’s adherence to the rule of law and electoral integrity.
“Ibadan, with its world-class facilities from bus stops to hotels, stands ready to host this historic gathering, echoing the spirit of the party’s transformative 1998 Jos convention.” The statement partly read.
Attached to the post were pictures and videos of march parade by flags and banner holstering supporters with some holding a mini rally in the stadium in support for the respective candidates for the party’s national leadership positions.