As Ibadan Gears Up for PDP National Convention

With less than three weeks to the much-anticipated National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, preparations are in full swing as the city braces to host what many describe as a landmark political gathering.

The ancient city is set to welcome thousands of delegates, leaders, and loyalists from across the country to the refurbished Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, for an event that promises to be both symbolic and strategic—a celebration of unity, renewal, and the PDP’s determination to reposition itself ahead of the 2027 elections.

Despite internal frictions, including the controversy surrounding petitions by PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu over an alleged forgery of his signature, the party leadership has maintained a united front. Anyanwu had petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector General of Police, calling for an investigation into letters he claimed were falsified.

However, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, dismissed the allegations, stating that Anyanwu was present at all relevant National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings and co-signed the official letters regarding the Ibadan convention. Ologunagba presented multiple documents bearing Anyanwu’s signature, stressing that the petitions were an attempt to derail preparations. He called on security agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly, describing the controversy as “a calculated effort to distract the party.”

Meanwhile, party faithful across the country remain upbeat. In spite of ongoing legal tussles in Abuja, the Federal High Court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, has directed all parties to refrain from actions that might pre-empt the court’s ruling—expected before the end of October—thus clearing the path for a convention free of legal encumbrances.

Within the party, optimism runs high. Insiders describe the situation as “under control,” expressing confidence that the court’s verdict will further strengthen the PDP’s cohesion and readiness.

In Ibadan, final touches are being made to the convention venue. Governor Seyi Makinde and Governor Ahmad Umaru Fintiri, who chairs the Planning Committee, have been personally overseeing logistics. Fintiri assured the public that the PDP is fully prepared, calling the upcoming convention “a convention of renewal.”

He emphasized that despite recent defections, the PDP remains a formidable force, committed to redefining its direction and restoring public trust. “This convention is not just about electing new leaders,” he said, “but about reaffirming our unity and purpose as a party of the people.”

Excitement is already building across Ibadan. Hotels are nearly fully booked, and event planners are transforming the venue into a showcase of the PDP’s signature colours, complete with multimedia displays celebrating its history and achievements. “It will be a blend of politics, culture, and elegance. Ibadan is ready to host the nation,” a logistics committee member remarked.

Governor Makinde has also shifted the political conversation beyond party lines, insisting that Nigeria’s real challenge lies not in political realignment but in tackling hunger, poverty, and despair. He described the convention as a defining moment for the PDP to reconnect with Nigerians and reaffirm its founding ideals.

Observers note that holding the convention in the South-West—particularly in Ibadan, widely regarded as the region’s political headquarters—is both symbolic and strategic. After weathering internal crises, the PDP sees this event as an opportunity to rebuild its foundation and reaffirm its status as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.

Oyo PDP Publicity Secretary, Hon. Michael Ogunsina, dismissed rumours of a possible postponement, assuring that “all preparations are on course.” According to him, “Every necessary arrangement—from logistics to accommodation and security—has been perfected to ensure a smooth and successful convention.”

He added that the Planning Committee Chairman, Governor Fintiri, had recently inspected facilities in Ibadan and expressed satisfaction with the level of readiness. “The PDP is fully prepared,” Ogunsina reiterated. “This convention will showcase our strength, unity, and renewed focus on delivering good governance.”

As the countdown continues, all eyes are on Ibadan. For the PDP, the convention represents more than a routine political event—it is a rallying cry for renewal and a demonstration of resilience. For the people of Ibadan, it is an opportunity to host history and remind the nation of the city’s enduring role in shaping Nigeria’s political journey.