A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has returned Ibrahim Damagum as Deputy National Chairman following a controversial national convention held in Abuja.

The convention, attended by delegates loyal to Wike’s political bloc, also saw the emergence of a new set of National Working Committee (NWC) members, consolidating the influence of the former Rivers State governor within the party’s leadership structure.

Party officials at the gathering said the exercise was aimed at restoring stability and repositioning the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections. The process, largely based on consensus, reaffirmed key figures while elevating Wike allies into strategic positions.

Speaking at the convention, leaders of the faction stressed the need for unity despite the party’s lingering internal crisis. Bukola Saraki, a former Senate President, urged members to remain committed to the PDP, describing it as a strong platform capable of regaining national power.

However, the development has further deepened divisions within the opposition party, as rival factions continue to challenge the legitimacy of the convention. A separate bloc had earlier moved to halt the exercise, citing unresolved legal disputes over previous leadership arrangements.

The leadership tussle is rooted in earlier court rulings that disrupted the party’s structure, leading to the emergence of parallel claims to authority. Critics within the PDP have warned that the prolonged crisis could undermine the party’s effectiveness as a credible opposition.

Party elder, Olabode George expressed concern over the situation, cautioning that internal wrangling and external interference could weaken the PDP ahead of future elections.

Despite the tensions, calls for reconciliation featured prominently at the convention. Sule Lamido, a former governor of Jigawa State, appealed to aggrieved members to set aside differences and work toward rebuilding the party.

In his remarks, Wike reiterated the need for loyalty and cohesion among party members, expressing confidence that the PDP would overcome its challenges and emerge stronger.

The outcome of the convention signals a growing consolidation of influence by Wike’s camp within the PDP, even as legal battles and internal disagreements continue to shape the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 polls.