Jegede Leads PDP Screening Panel As Internal Rifts Linger Ahead Of Convention

The Peoples Democratic Party has named a 13-member committee to screen aspirants ahead of its National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15 at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Former Ondo State governorship candidate, Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), will chair the committee, with Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri serving as deputy chairman and Asue Ighodalo as secretary. The announcement was made on Saturday by Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who chairs the Convention Organising Committee.

Other members include former Osun Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Imo Governor Achike Udenwa, Josephine Anenih, Mariam Chiroma, Felix Hyat, Emmanuel Enoidem, Aduke Maina, and Zainab Maina. The screening begins Tuesday next week.

The convention preparations continue despite lingering internal disputes and a court case seeking to halt the exercise. The suit, before Justice James Omotosho of the Abuja Federal High Court, challenges the process over alleged exclusion of stakeholders and insufficient consultations. Judgment is expected on October 31 — just two weeks before the convention.

The crisis has deepened following the exit of Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri and Enugu Governor Peter Mbah from the PDP, with Mbah defecting to the All Progressives Congress. Some of Diri’s allies have also joined the ruling party.

In the northern bloc, divisions have emerged over the choice of former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as the consensus candidate for national chairman. His selection by North-West leaders sparked backlash from some members who claimed it was imposed without due consultation.

The PDP has, however, maintained that all positions remain open for contest at the convention, stressing that no member has been barred from participating.