PDP inaugurates 44-member national convention zoning panel

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated a 44-man zoning committee for its forthcoming national convention.

Last month, the PDP national executive committee (NEC) approved November 15 and 16 for the convention to elect new national working committee (NWC) members.

The committee is expected to allocate the various NWC positions to the geopolitical zones, which the NEC will review and approve.

If the party chairmanship goes to the north, the presidential ticket will be zoned to the south and vice-versa in line with precedent.

In 2021, the PDP zoned the chairmanship position to the north, while in 2022, it made the presidential ticket open. The decision triggered a crisis in the party that has lingered on to date.

Speaking during the inauguration of the committee on  in Abuja on Thursday at the party’s headquarters, Umar Damagum, PDP acting chairman, harped on equity and fairness.

“This committee is the engine room where we lay the political foundation for the leadership of the PDP over the next four years. The decisions you take will shape our ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the democratic values we represent,” Damagum said.

“Our zoning process must reflect fairness, equity, and strategic thinking, as well as strengthen our unity, reward loyalty, and position us for electoral victory.

“I trust that the zoning committee will approach its task with wisdom, foresight, and a full understanding of the bigger picture: PDP over anyone, and PDP above any personal interest.

“We operate in a dynamic political terrain, sometimes turbulent, always demanding the very best from us. In recent times, we have faced changes in leadership and the departure of some members who chose a different path.

“Yet we remain standing because the PDP is bigger than any individual, stronger than any momentary setback, and destined to remain a central force in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“We need leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity. We must place individuals who inspire confidence, mobilise effectively, and speak to the hopes of Nigerians. Please, members of this committee, do keep in mind that the deputies are just as important as the principals.

“I speak from experience. I ran for and was elected to the position of national deputy chairman (north). Yet, due to political circumstances, I was thrust into the role of leading our great party nationally.”

Here is the complete list of the committee members:

1. Douye Diri — chairman
2. Dauda Lawal — vice chairman
3.  Caleb Muftwang — secretary
4. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki
5.  Lado Dan Marke
6. Peter N. Jiya
7. Isiak Salman
8. Eddy Olafeso
9. Monsurat Sumonu
10. Bashiru Tokunbo Salami
11. Hamza Akuyan Koshe
12. Mohammed Imam
13. Gebon T. Kataps
14. Dan Ulasi
15. Ikeje Asogwa
16. Jones Onyereri
17. Peter Mrakpo
18. Emmanuel Ibiok
19. Warman Ogoriba
20. Nnena Ukeje
21. Abdu Bulama
22. Rita Orji
23. Aliyu Idi Hong
24. Sunday Solarin
25. Duro Faseyi
26. Ibrahim Dankwambo
27. Mahe Dange
28. Tony Aziegbemi
29. Igwe Godwin Abeng
30. Frank Owhor
31. Isa Ahsiru
32. Aminu Taura
33. Kabiru Usman
34. Francis Orogu
35. Abraham Kwaghnguh
36. Hassan Usman Sokodabo
37. Kevin Chukwu
38. Ibrahim Shekarau
39. Ibrahim Tsauri
40. Maryam Ciroma
41. Zainab Kure
42. Maxwell Okudo
43. Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola
44. Esther Uduehi