Nyesom Wike says PDP will participate in the 2027 elections and reclaim lost mandates as party leaders rally for unity at Abuja convention
“PDP Will Be on Ballot in 2027” — Wike Fires Warning to Defectors at Abuja Convention
ABUJA, Nigeria — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and PDP National Leader, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will field candidates in the 2027 general elections, signaling a renewed push to reposition the party after months of internal crisis.
Speaking at the party’s national convention in Abuja, Wike assured delegates that the PDP remains a formidable political force and will reclaim its lost ground.
“By the grace of God, PDP will be on the ballot in 2027,” he said, drawing loud applause from party faithful across the 36 states and the FCT.
Wike noted that the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the convention effectively validated the leadership of the party’s caretaker committee headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed.
The convention culminated in Mohammed’s emergence as National Chairman by consensus, alongside other key National Working Committee (NWC) members.
The FCT minister also vowed that the party would reclaim mandates allegedly taken by defectors across the country, taking a swipe at former members who switched allegiance.
He singled out defectors, including Peter Obi, accusing them of lacking political principles.
At the same time, Wike praised grassroots members for remaining loyal during the party’s turbulent period.
“While some opportunistic elites defected… our members remained faithful, praying for a renaissance. Today, that renaissance is here.”
Despite his criticism, Wike extended an olive branch to aggrieved members, urging unity and reconciliation ahead of 2027.
“No one will be excluded, and everyone will have an equal opportunity to serve,” he said, stressing inclusiveness as key to rebuilding the party.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki described the convention as proof that the PDP remains deeply rooted nationwide.
“Our mission is to provide a credible platform for those who wish to contest in 2027,” Saraki said.
Similarly, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro lamented the party’s decline in governorship numbers—from 13 to just two—due to the prolonged crisis, but expressed optimism about a comeback.
Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido also urged members not to lose hope, insisting the PDP still has a strong future.
In a dramatic moment, National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu reaffirmed his authority within the party.
“The original certificate is with me,” he declared, referencing the party’s foundational document.
In his acceptance speech, the new chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, pledged to lead with fairness, equity, and justice.
“Under my leadership, the party will belong to all of us,” he assured members.
The Abuja convention marks a critical turning point for the PDP, as leaders attempt to close ranks, restore internal cohesion, and position the party as a credible challenger in the 2027 elections.
With renewed leadership, strong rhetoric against defections, and calls for unity, the PDP appears set for a high-stakes political comeback.
