The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), one of Nigeria’s leading political parties, has officially announced the postponement of its highly anticipated state congresses in Plateau and Cross River states. This decision, which has sparked discussions among political stakeholders and observers, was communicated through a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
According to the statement, the state congresses, initially scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, have been deferred to a later date. The PDP leadership has promised to provide further details regarding the new schedule in due course, ensuring that all relevant parties are adequately informed. While the specific reasons for the postponement were not explicitly outlined in the statement, the move is seen as a strategic decision aimed at ensuring a seamless and inclusive process for the party’s internal democratic activities.
Hon. Ologunagba, in his capacity as the PDP’s spokesperson, called on party leaders, stakeholders, members, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, the media, and the general public to take note of the postponement and act accordingly. The announcement underscores the party’s commitment to maintaining transparency and effective communication with its members and the broader public as it navigates its internal processes in preparation for future elections.
Background and Significance of the State Congresses
The state congresses of the PDP are a critical component of the party’s organizational framework. These congresses serve as platforms for electing state-level party executives who play pivotal roles in coordinating the party’s activities, mobilizing grassroots support, and strategizing for elections at both state and national levels. The outcomes of these congresses often shape the party’s direction, influence its electoral prospects, and determine its ability to present a united front in Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape.
In Plateau and Cross River states, the state congresses were particularly significant due to the unique political dynamics in these regions. Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central geopolitical zone, is a politically volatile area with a history of intense competition between the PDP and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The state has witnessed swings in political control over the years, with the PDP maintaining a strong presence due to its grassroots mobilization and historical ties to the region’s diverse population. The state congress in Plateau was expected to set the stage for the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections, particularly in consolidating its influence in the North-Central zone.
Similarly, Cross River State, situated in the South-South geopolitical zone, is a traditional stronghold of the PDP. However, the state has experienced significant political shifts in recent years, with defections and internal party crises challenging the PDP’s dominance. The state congress was seen as an opportunity for the party to reorganize, resolve internal disputes, and strengthen its position ahead of future electoral contests. The postponement of these congresses, therefore, carries implications for the PDP’s strategic planning and its ability to maintain cohesion among its members in these key states.
Possible Reasons for the Postponement
While the PDP’s official statement did not provide explicit reasons for the postponement, political analysts and party insiders have speculated on several factors that may have contributed to the decision. One potential reason is the need to address internal party disputes that could disrupt the congresses. The PDP, like many political parties in Nigeria, has faced challenges related to factionalism, disagreements over leadership positions, and competing interests among its members. Ensuring that these issues are resolved before the congresses take place could help prevent chaos and ensure a more unified process.
Another possible factor is logistical preparedness. Organizing state congresses requires significant planning, including securing venues, coordinating with INEC and security agencies, and ensuring that party members across various local government areas are adequately mobilized. Any delays in these preparations could necessitate a postponement to avoid a poorly executed process that might undermine the credibility of the congresses.
Additionally, the PDP may be responding to external factors, such as security concerns or unforeseen developments in the political environment. Plateau State, for instance, has experienced periodic security challenges, including communal clashes and banditry, which could pose risks to large gatherings like party congresses. By postponing the events, the PDP may be prioritizing the safety of its members and ensuring that the congresses are conducted in a stable environment.
Implications for the PDP and Nigerian Politics
The postponement of the state congresses in Plateau and Cross River states has far-reaching implications for the PDP and Nigeria’s broader political landscape. For the PDP, the delay could provide an opportunity to strengthen its internal structures and address any lingering issues that might affect the outcome of the congresses. A well-organized and inclusive congress process is essential for electing credible and capable leaders who can steer the party toward success in future elections.
However, the postponement also carries risks. Delays in holding congresses could create uncertainty among party members and fuel perceptions of disorganization or weakness within the PDP. Political opponents, particularly the APC, may seize the opportunity to portray the PDP as a party struggling to maintain unity and direction. To mitigate these risks, the PDP leadership will need to act swiftly to communicate the new schedule and demonstrate that the postponement is a strategic move rather than a sign of internal disarray.
Furthermore, the postponement highlights the broader challenges facing political parties in Nigeria as they prepare for the 2027 general elections. With less than two years remaining before the next major electoral cycle, parties like the PDP must balance their internal processes with the need to engage the electorate and build momentum. The decisions made during this period, including the outcomes of state congresses, will play a critical role in shaping the political landscape in the lead-up to the elections.
Reactions from Stakeholders
The announcement of the postponement has elicited varied reactions from PDP stakeholders, political analysts, and the public. Some party members in Plateau and Cross River states have expressed disappointment, arguing that the delay could disrupt their preparations and momentum. Local party leaders who have been campaigning for positions in the state executives may need to adjust their strategies, which could lead to tensions within the party.
On the other hand, some stakeholders have welcomed the decision, viewing it as a pragmatic step to ensure a more organized and inclusive process. A PDP chieftain in Cross River, who spoke on condition of anonymity, noted that the postponement would allow the party to address unresolved issues from previous ward and local government congresses, ensuring that the state congress reflects the will of the majority of members.
Political analysts have also weighed in on the development, with some suggesting that the PDP’s decision reflects its awareness of the need to maintain credibility in its internal processes. Dr. Chidi Okonkwo, a political commentator based in Abuja, stated, “The PDP is taking a cautious approach to avoid the pitfalls that have plagued its congresses in the past. By postponing the events, the party is signaling its commitment to conducting a transparent and credible process, which is crucial for its long-term success.”
The Role of INEC and Security Agencies
The PDP’s call for INEC, security agencies, the media, and the public to take note of the postponement underscores the collaborative nature of Nigeria’s electoral processes. INEC, as the body responsible for overseeing elections and party activities, plays a critical role in monitoring party congresses to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines. The postponement will require INEC to adjust its schedule and resources, as its officials were likely preparing to observe the congresses on the original date.
Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), are also integral to the success of party congresses. These agencies are tasked with providing security at congress venues to prevent disruptions and ensure the safety of participants. The PDP’s decision to inform security agencies of the postponement demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and orderly process when the congresses eventually take place.
The PDP’s Broader Strategy
The postponement of the state congresses in Plateau and Cross River states comes at a time when the PDP is working to reposition itself as a formidable opposition party. Following its loss in the 2023 presidential election, the party has been focused on rebuilding its structures, resolving internal conflicts, and mobilizing support ahead of the 2027 elections. The state congresses are a key part of this strategy, as they will determine the leadership that will drive the party’s activities at the state level.
In recent months, the PDP has taken steps to strengthen its national leadership and address factionalism within its ranks. The party has also been engaging with stakeholders across the country to build coalitions and expand its membership base. The postponement of the congresses, while potentially disruptive in the short term, could provide the PDP with an opportunity to fine-tune its strategy and ensure that its state-level leadership aligns with its broader goals.
Looking Ahead
As the PDP prepares to announce the new dates for the state congresses in Plateau and Cross River, all eyes will be on the party’s ability to manage the process effectively. The success of these congresses will depend on the party’s ability to address internal challenges, engage its members, and conduct a transparent and inclusive process. The outcomes of the congresses will also have implications for the PDP’s performance in the 2027 elections, particularly in these two strategically important states.
For now, the PDP’s leadership has urged patience and cooperation from its members and stakeholders. Hon. Ologunagba’s statement emphasized the party’s commitment to keeping all relevant parties informed and ensuring that the congresses are conducted in a manner that upholds the principles of democracy and fairness.
In conclusion, the postponement of the PDP’s state congresses in Plateau and Cross River states is a significant development that reflects the complexities of managing a major political party in Nigeria. While the decision has sparked mixed reactions, it also presents an opportunity for the PDP to demonstrate its organizational strength and commitment to internal democracy. As the party works to reschedule the congresses, it will need to navigate the challenges of maintaining unity, addressing logistical concerns, and preparing for the broader political battles ahead.