THREE HEAVYWEIGHTS BATTLE FOR PDP NATIONAL CHAIRMANSHIP AS CONVENTION LOOMS

The race for the next PDP National Chairman has officially become a high-stakes affair, with former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, former Minister of Special Duties and SAN Tanimu Turaki, and former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi emerging as the leading figures. An insider source revealed that these contenders are in the race due to their political clout and experience. The source said, “Lamido, a former two-term Governor of Jigawa State is widely respected as a staunch party loyalist and founding member of the PDP. Those who support him emphasize his long-standing commitment to the party’s foundational ideals. Some believe that Lamido is a stabilising force needed to resolve internal conflicts and restore the party’s national stature.” For Makarfi, the source pointed to his consensus-building skills, while Turaki’s network and strategic political history within the North position him as a formidable contender. Former PDP National Secretary Ibrahim Umar Tsauri confirmed the zoning arrangements, stating, “Yes, the majority agreed that the national chairman should go to the North-West, but a few people have reservations and say they have a minority stance. But the majority agreed with that. In fact, as far as the Northern Caucus is concerned, the position has been micro-zoned to the North-West.” Tsauri added that positions from the North-West have been allocated to the North-East, North-East to North-Central, and North-Central to North-West, with zones expected to reach consensus. He said, “You’ll have to wait until the time comes. It’s not for you to know now because this is an internal matter. We don’t bring it out until we finish, likely before Monday, you will be able to know.” The PDP national convention, scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025 in Ibadan, is viewed as pivotal for party unity and strategy. However, the convention faces a legal threat from a lawsuit filed by Austin Nwachukwu, Amah Nnanna, and Turnah Alabh George, who allege breaches of the PDP Constitution. The case, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, is set for judgment on October 31.