Chuks Okocha in Abuja
In a bold response to Umar Ganduje, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) issued a warning against any attempts to manipulate the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State on November 16. They cautioned that such actions would lead to chaos and serious repercussions.
Today, PDP governors are convening to finalize plans regarding the proposed National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. In addition, the PDP caucus in the House of Representatives is scheduled to meet with the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party.
Ganduje had expressed confidence that the APC would successfully “capture” the South-West by winning the Ondo State election during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, held on Sunday. He emphasized the ruling party’s commitment to unifying all six states under the progressive movement, aiming to bolster President Bola Tinubu’s support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While rallying support for APC candidate and incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ganduje refrained from disclosing the party’s strategic approach to winning the election.
In a swift rebuttal, Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, reminded Ganduje that Ondo State should not be underestimated. “We all have lessons from history. The events of 1963 and 1983, particularly the ‘operation wetie’ phase, remain vivid in our memories, showcasing the backlash against imposing unpopular candidates,” he remarked.
Ologunagba stressed that any attempts to manipulate the upcoming election would be met with strong resistance. He called on security agencies to warn Ganduje about the potential consequences of his provocative statements, citing the threats to democracy from unchecked statements and actions of political figures seeking power at any cost. “It’s crucial for him to learn from history,” Ologunagba urged.
As for the forthcoming governors’ meeting, Bala Mohammed, the chairman of the PDP governors’ forum and governor of Bauchi State, confirmed that discussions will focus on finalizing details for the NEC assembly. The meeting could take place virtually or in person in Abuja. Sources indicate that the governors aim to reach a consensus to provide a favorable outcome for the acting national chairman, Amb Iliya Damagum.
Plans are in motion for the PDP caucus in the House of Representatives to engage with the NWC in an effort to apply pressure for the NEC meeting, scheduled for Thursday. The results of this meeting will inform the deliberations among the governors.
However, the PDP governors appear divided, with some supporting Damagum’s continuation while others advocate for a shift in leadership, aiming to represent the North Central zone. Meanwhile, the reconciliation committee led by Olagunsoye Oyinlola continues its efforts at the party’s national secretariat. Following their meetings with the National Assembly caucus, they plan to report their findings to the NWC soon.
Oyinlola emphasized the necessity of unity within the PDP for future progress. “From our engagements with Senators and House members, it’s clear that unity is essential for our advancement,” he stated, though he refrained from revealing specific outcomes from their discussions.
