PDP inaugurates 44-member national convention zoning panel

By Lateef Ibrahim

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated a 44-man zoning committee for its forthcoming national convention.

It would be recalled month, the PDP national executive committee (NEC) approved November 15 and 16 for the convention to elect new national working committee (NWC) members.

The Committee is expected to allocate the various NWC positions to the geopolitical zones, which the NEC will review and approve.

If the party chairmanship goes to the north, the presidential ticket will be zoned to the south and vice-versa in line with precedent.

In 2021, the PDP zoned the chairmanship position to the north, while in 2022, it made the presidential ticket open. The decision triggered a crisis in the party that has lingered on to date.

Speaking during the inauguration of the committee on in Abuja on Thursday at the party’s headquarters, Umar Damagum, PDP acting chairman, harped on equity and fairness.

“This committee is the engine room where we lay the political foundation for the leadership of the PDP over the next four years. The decisions you take will shape our ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the democratic values we represent,” Damagum said.

“Our zoning process must reflect fairness, equity, and strategic thinking, as well as strengthen our unity, reward loyalty, and position us for electoral victory.

“I trust that the zoning committee will approach its task with wisdom, foresight, and a full understanding of the bigger picture: PDP over anyone, and PDP above any personal interest.

“We operate in a dynamic political terrain, sometimes turbulent, always demanding the very best from us. In recent times, we have faced changes in leadership and the departure of some members who chose a different path.

“Yet we remain standing because the PDP is bigger than any individual, stronger than any momentary setback, and destined to remain a central force in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“We need leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity. We must place individuals who inspire confidence, mobilise effectively, and speak to the hopes of Nigerians. Please, members of this committee, do keep in mind that the deputies are just as important as the principals.

“I speak from experience. I ran for and was elected to the position of national deputy chairman (north). Yet, due to political circumstances, I was thrust into the role of leading our great party nationally.”