Wike-Backed PDP Elects Mohammed, Anyanwu as Chairman, Secretary

A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party backed by Nyesom Wike has elected new members of its National Working Committee, with Abdulrahman Mohammed emerging as National Chairman and Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary.

The duo, alongside 19 other officials, emerged through consensus at the party’s 2026 national convention held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Sunday. Over 2,000 delegates from across the country reportedly participated in the exercise.

Prominent figures present at the convention included former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, and former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi.

Addressing delegates, Wike expressed optimism about the party’s future, declaring that the PDP would participate in the 2027 general elections. He described the convention as legitimate and recognised, noting that it was monitored by the electoral authorities.

The former Rivers State governor also said the party was on a path of recovery, stressing the need for inclusiveness and unity among members.

In his acceptance remarks, Mohammed pledged to lead an inclusive administration, urging members to embrace unity as the party repositions for future elections.

“This convention is not just about electing leaders, but about renewal and rebuilding the party after a challenging period,” he said.

The Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee and former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, disclosed that about 2,035 delegates attended the convention and assured that reconciliation efforts would continue.

The development comes amid a lingering leadership crisis within the PDP, which has seen the emergence of rival factions, including one led by Tanimu Turaki and backed by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

The crisis has also triggered legal battles, with a recent Court of Appeal ruling affirming an earlier judgment that restrained the party from conducting its Ibadan convention, a decision now being challenged at the Supreme Court.

Despite the internal disputes, party leaders at the Abuja convention expressed confidence in rebuilding the PDP and positioning it for a strong outing in the 2027 elections.