(DDM) – Key leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convened a high-profile meeting in Abuja on Monday night at the residence of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, signaling intensified negotiations ahead of the 2027 elections.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the meeting brought together influential figures including the party’s National Secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu; former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; and former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom.
Also present were the Minority Leader of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly, Kingsley Chinda, the Speaker of the Rivers Assembly, and several other lawmakers from the state.
The gathering, described by political insiders as strategic and tightly controlled, was convened to deliberate on the current state of the party, address internal rifts, and map out strategies to strengthen the PDP’s positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
zoning decision and southern aspirations
The meeting comes shortly after the PDP formally announced that its 2027 presidential ticket would be zoned to the southern region of Nigeria.
The zoning decision has sparked debate and political maneuvering within the party, with key southern stakeholders keen to secure influential positions and shape the candidate selection process.
Notably, Wike and his political allies were absent from the initial southern stakeholders’ meeting where the zoning formula was first deliberated, raising questions about his future role in the party.
Analysts note that Monday’s Abuja session could represent Wike’s effort to assert influence and consolidate alliances, particularly in the South-South and South-East regions.
reconciling factions and building cohesion
According to sources familiar with the meeting, discussions focused on reconciling the various factions within the PDP that have been at odds since the controversial 2022 presidential primaries and the fallout from the 2023 general elections.
Warring interests have historically threatened party unity, with disagreements over candidate selection, resource allocation, and regional representation creating tension among southern and northern leaders.
During Monday’s session, the leaders reportedly explored mechanisms for conflict resolution, grassroots mobilization, and coordinated campaigning to present a united front against the ruling party in the 2027 elections.
The presence of figures such as Anyanwu, Ikpeazu, and Ortom, each commanding substantial followings in their respective regions, is seen as critical for consolidating southern influence and ensuring that the zoning decision translates into practical electoral advantage.
Wike’s political influence under scrutiny
Political commentators note that Wike, who served as Governor of Rivers State until 2023 and was a key player in Tinubu’s 2023 campaign dynamics, continues to wield significant influence within the PDP.
His absence from the initial southern stakeholders’ meeting was interpreted by some analysts as a deliberate distancing, enabling him to negotiate from a position of strength.
Observers suggest that Wike’s engagement in Abuja may signal plans to shape candidate selection, rally support among undecided southern delegates, and potentially play a kingmaker role in the 2027 primaries.
implications for 2027 elections
The PDP has faced internal crises for several years, including factional disputes over leadership, zoning controversies, and the challenge of maintaining cohesion among its national and regional structures.
The southern zoning decision has intensified political maneuvering, as party leaders seek to balance representation, appease loyalists, and position themselves for strategic advantage.
Monday’s meeting in Abuja, although closed to the media, is expected to influence party strategy significantly.
Analysts predict that decisions made during the session could determine which southern candidates emerge as frontrunners and how the PDP consolidates its base against ruling party encroachment.
With the 2027 elections now only a few years away, the PDP is under pressure to resolve internal disagreements swiftly and present a united, credible platform capable of challenging the incumbent administration.
Political observers will closely watch follow-up meetings and public statements for signals of Wike’s next moves, alliance formations, and the possible emergence of new consensus candidates.
looking ahead
While details from Monday’s session remain largely confidential, the implications for party unity, southern influence, and electoral strategy are clear.
Analysts believe the meeting could mark a turning point in the PDP’s approach to internal governance, candidate selection, and readiness for 2027.
The coming weeks will likely see more meetings, public engagement, and possibly the realignment of political actors as the party prepares to implement decisions taken in Abuja and reconcile interests across the South and the broader national landscape.
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