The Northern Elders Unity Forum of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a strong statement criticizing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his associates, accusing them of working to destroy the PDP and weaken Nigeria’s opposition for President Bola Tinubu's second win.
In a communiqué released after its 18th General Meeting, the Forum reaffirmed its confidence in the party’s Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum, while condemning what it described as “desperate efforts” by certain members to disrupt the upcoming national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
According to the Forum’s National Secretary, Dr. Abbas Sadauki (Dan Madamin Tofa), members unanimously resolved to defend the unity of the party. “No amount of intimidation, blackmail, or falsehood will prevent the successful conduct of the national convention in Ibadan,” he stated.
Dr. Sadauki accused some members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of collaborating with external forces to destabilize the party. He described those attempting to derail the convention as “predators” acting against the party’s collective interest, warning that their alliance with “enemies of progress” would end in “political shame and regret.”
The Forum further alleged that the ongoing internal sabotage was being driven by Wike’s political ambitions and influence. “It is regrettable that certain ungrateful elements, under Wike’s guidance, are determined to destroy the PDP and other opposition movements through court actions and abuse of power. Their mission will not succeed,” Sadauki warned.
Expressing full support for the current leadership, the Forum commended Ambassador Damagum and other loyal party members for their commitment to uniting and revitalizing the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections. “Their dedication represents a patriotic effort to rebuild and reposition the party for future success,” the statement noted.
The group also cautioned the judiciary and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against political interference aimed at destabilizing democratic institutions. It urged the judiciary to resist manipulation by “desperate elements” intent on undermining democracy, describing such individuals as “enemies of progress.”
Reaffirming its loyalty to the PDP leadership, the Forum insisted that the National Executive Committee’s (NEC) decision to hold the national convention is binding on all members and must be respected. It concluded by expressing unwavering support for Ambassador Damagum and calling on all disciplined members to defend the unity, integrity, and future of the party.