At least two governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were noticeably absent on Saturday as the party’s national elective convention commenced in Ibadan, Oyo State, despite ongoing legal and internal disputes.
The governors missing from the high-profile gathering are Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and Agbu Kefas of Taraba State. Their absence has reignited speculation, particularly as both men were previously accused of flirting with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), allegations they have repeatedly denied.
Meanwhile, five governors were present at the convention grounds: Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, and host governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
Reports also indicate that Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, may boycott the convention due to his political association with the party faction led by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. The Wike-aligned bloc has openly opposed the staging of the convention, deepening existing rifts within the party.
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Despite conflicting court orders seeking to halt the event, the PDP proceeded with the convention under the leadership of the Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, whose faction has insisted that the elective process must continue. The Wike-backed faction maintains that holding the convention at this time risks further division and violates internal agreements.
The absence of Adeleke and Kefas comes at a delicate time for the PDP. Both governors faced accusations earlier this year of exploring defection to the APC—a claim repeatedly dismissed by their spokespersons. Nonetheless, critics argue that their no-show at such a critical gathering raises fresh questions about their commitment to the opposition party.
Party insiders suggest that the simmering tensions mirror the broader battle for relevance within the PDP as the 2027 general election approaches. With multiple court cases, competing power blocs, and unresolved leadership disputes, the party appears determined to project an image of stability by continuing with the convention.
As proceedings in Ibadan continue, political observers say the conduct and outcome of the convention may determine whether the PDP can rebuild unity or slip further into internal fragmentation.
