Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the appeal lodged at the Supreme Court by the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that it poses no threat to the party’s forthcoming National Convention.

Wike also declared that the PDP would surprise Nigerians in the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence in the party’s capacity to reassert its political dominance.

Speaking after inspecting the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome in Abuja, venue of the convention slated for March 29 and 30, the Minister maintained that preparations were on course and nearing completion.

He stressed that reconciliation efforts within the party would not halt the convention, noting that such processes are continuous and would persist even after the gathering.

“The convention will go on as planned. Reconciliation is a continuous process. It does not stop because you are holding a convention. After the convention, we will continue to engage those who feel aggrieved,” he said.

Dismissing concerns over the Supreme Court appeal, Wike described it as inconsequential to the party’s plans.

According to him, “The appeal has no effect on the convention. We are focused on what is important, which is strengthening the party and preparing for the future.”

The Minister, who was accompanied by key party leaders, including Chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu; Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; Chairman of the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC), Mohammed Abdulrahman; and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, among others, said the party remained united despite internal disagreements.

He emphasised that the PDP, as a large political platform, naturally accommodates diverse interests, adding that disagreements were inevitable but manageable.

“There is room for accommodation. The PDP is a very large party. The umbrella is wide enough to accommodate everyone. In any organisation, there will be grievances. What is important is how you manage them in the overall interest of the party,” he stated.

On zoning, Wike disclosed that the party had already reached a consensus on the distribution of key positions across the regions.

“We have zoned our positions. The presidency has been zoned to the South, while the chairmanship is zoned to the North. This arrangement will make the process smoother and more acceptable to all,” he said.

He further noted that, unlike in the past, the party was presenting a more cohesive front ahead of the convention.

“For the first time, we are not talking about a so-called unity list that reflects divisions. Everyone has agreed on the direction we are taking. There are no factions,” he added.

Assessing the level of preparedness, Wike expressed satisfaction with ongoing arrangements, putting the readiness level at about 95 per cent.

“This visit is to look at the final preparations. We are about 95 per cent ready, and by tomorrow everything will be set. Seating arrangements for all states have been concluded, and the VIP section is also ready. We do not expect more than 2,500 delegates,” he said.

Reiterating his optimism about the party’s prospects, the Minister said the PDP would use the 2027 elections to demonstrate its strength and reconnect with Nigerians.

“The PDP will shock Nigerians in 2027. We are working towards rebuilding confidence and ensuring that the party returns stronger,” he added.

The convention is expected to bring together delegates and stakeholders from across the country as the party seeks to consolidate its structures ahead of future electoral contests. (Guardian)