Police officers on Saturday blocked access to the venue where a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had planned to ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
Security personnel stationed around the A-Class Park and Event Centre in Abuja prevented movement into the area, telling journalists and party members that the event had been cancelled.
However, officials of the Kabiru Turaki-led PDP faction later disclosed that the convention had not been called off but relocated to another venue in Area 10, Abuja.
The development comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP, which has split into rival factions. The group backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, remains the faction officially recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Turaki-led faction had scheduled Saturday’s convention to formally endorse Jonathan as its presidential candidate. But days before the event, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) directed hotels, event centres and public facilities to transact only with political party leadership recognised by INEC.
The administration also warned that any property found hosting organisations it described as illegal could risk sanctions, including the withdrawal of title documents.
Despite the warning, the Turaki faction insisted it would go ahead with the convention at the original venue.
The faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the event centre had come under pressure from authorities and was allegedly threatened with closure if it allowed the gathering to hold.
According to him, the party had fulfilled all requirements for the event, including payment for the venue and notification of relevant security agencies.
He maintained that no law gives the FCT Minister the authority to decide which political meetings can or cannot take place in Abuja.
“We are confident that Nigeria remains a country governed by law. Any attempt to suppress opposition voices through intimidation or force should concern all citizens,” Ememobong said.
The faction eventually proceeded with its convention at the alternative location, where party members gathered to continue activities surrounding Jonathan’s proposed candidacy.
