PDP National Convention kicks off in Ibadan

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention is currently underway in Ibadan, Oyo State, with party leaders receiving various flags symbolic of their roles and responsibilities. The ceremony marks a significant moment in the party’s political calendar as it prepares for its internal elections.

Ambassador Ilya Damagum, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, received the party’s official flag, while Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, who also chairs the National Convention, was presented with the National Convention Flag. The ceremonial handing over of flags set the tone for the formal proceedings.

Senator Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, received the Nigerian National Flag, highlighting the party’s commitment to national unity. The host governor, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, received the state flag, highlighting the significance of the venue.

Other notable recipients included Senator Abba Moro, Senate Minority Leader, who received the Senate Flag, and Honourable Fred Agbedi, who received the House of Representatives Flag. These gestures symbolized the collective responsibilities of party leaders at both federal and state levels.

The convention officially commenced with the accreditation of more than 3,000 delegates who traveled from across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory. The accreditation exercise, which began in the afternoon, serves as a preparatory step for the voting sessions.

Ibadan had been lively since the previous day, as party faithful from different parts of the country arrived in the South-West political hub to participate in the convention. The city’s streets and hotels were filled with delegates, officials, and supporters, creating a festive political atmosphere.

Ahead of the convention, Governor Makinde hosted a dinner on Friday, November 14, attended by PDP governors, former governors, and key party leaders, including Senator Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and members of the National Working Committee. The dinner provided an opportunity for networking and discussions on the party’s agenda.

Among the high-profile attendees were the governors of Adamawa, Bauchi, Rivers, and Zamfara, as well as former governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Ibrahim Dankwambo. The event reflected the PDP’s emphasis on unity and collaboration as the convention proceedings began.