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From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The Abdulraham Mohammed-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the party is not in any talks for alliance or merger with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or any other political party.
Mohammed, who stated this, at the inaugural meeting of the NWC at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, said the opposition party is a strong and independent platform with a pathway to reclaiming leadership at the national level.
The PDP has been polarised between the Tanimu Turaki-led NWC, backed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde and the Mohammed-led NWC, which enjoyed the support of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The polarisation of the PDP started after its convention in Ibadan organised by the immediate past NWC led by Umar Damagum, elected a new NWC led by Turaki, former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.
Immediately after the Ibadan convention, loyalists of the FCT minister set up a 13-man caretaker committee headed by Mohammed to pilot the affairs of the opposition party pending the conduct of a fresh convention.
On March 9, the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, nullified the Ibadan convention. After the judgement, there were efforts by the two camps to reconcile.
After the reconciliation failed, the Wike camp held its own convention on March 29 and 30 in Abuja to elect new NWC members while the Turaki-led NWC took its case to the Supreme Court.
Last week, Turaki, alongside some PDP leaders, including Makinde met with the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC, fueling speculations that the two parties were discussing possible alliance for
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However, Mohammed, while noting that the party has emerged stronger from the crisis, stated that the question of the leadership of the PDP has been conclusively decided with the recognition of his NWC by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“What we have witnessed in recent months is not merely a resolution of disputes, but the triumph of institutional resilience over uncertainty, and of collective conviction over division.
“Today, we can confidently affirm that the Peoples Democratic Party has emerged stronger, more united, and better positioned to play its historic role in Nigeria’s democratic journey. The successful navigation of these challenges is a testament to the maturity of our internal mechanisms and the enduring strength of our democratic culture.
“It is also significant to note the question of leadership. which was once subject to contention, has now been conclusively settled. The Independent National Electoral Commission, Independent National Electoral Commission, has duly recognized and uploaded the names of our National Officers on its official portal.
“This development provides institutional clarity and further reinforces the legitimacy of the current leadership. The era of uncertainty is behind us, and the PDP is once again firmly anchored on a foundation of legality and order.
“In light of recent speculations, we wish to state unequivocally that the Peoples Democratic Party is not engaged in any merger or coalition discussions with the African Democratic Congress or with any other political party in Nigeria.
“The PDP remains a strong, independent political platform with a clear vision and a credible pathway to reclaiming its leadership role at the national level…
“While we respect the fundamental right to freedom of expression, we will not tolerate actions that amount to a disregard for the rule of law or that seek to bring the party into disrepute. The PDP will take all necessary legal steps to address any conduct that borders on contempt of court or misrepresentation, in accordance with extant laws.”
Mohammed noted that the opposition party is preparing to play a decisive role in shaping the future of the country, stating that “looking towards 2027, we assure Nigerians that the PDP will present ideas, leadership, and solutions that reflect the true aspirations of our people. “
