The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faces renewed crisis as federal lawmakers from Nigeria’s Southeast threaten to boycott the party’s upcoming National Convention in Ibadan. The dispute centers on alleged plans to rezone the National Woman Leader position from the Southeast to the South-South region.
Lawmakers described the move as an attempt to “humiliate and alienate the Southeast” within the party. They warn that failure to reverse the decision before candidate screening could trigger mass defections and deepen party disunity.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, speaking for the group, explained the position was originally zoned to the Southeast with Imo State designated to produce the occupant. He alleged former Enugu Governor Peter Mbah, now in the APC, previously influenced the zoning to favor his state despite regional stakeholders endorsing Ifeyinwa Arodiogbu.
“Since Governor Mbah defected to APC, that arrangement is invalid,” Ugochinyere stated. “Justice demands Imo State should now produce the National Woman Leader.” The lawmakers contend Mbah’s departure nullifies the previous arrangement.
They issued an ultimatum threatening to formally disavow the convention and boycott it entirely if the PDP proceeds with current plans. Ugochinyere declared, “No Southeast lawmaker will remain in PDP if this injustice stands.”
The group urged resolution before screening begins, cautioning that marginalizing the Southeast would provoke regional resentment. Ugochinyere warned altering zoning formulas would further destabilize the party during its fragile rebuilding phase.
“This signals PDP no longer respects equity and inclusiveness,” he emphasized. Lawmakers reminded party leadership that the Southeast remains one of PDP’s most consistent support bases since formation. Continued exclusion could drive loyal members away.
They appealed to Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde and Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke for urgent intervention. “Governors must ensure Southeast retains this position,” Ugochinyere stressed. “It’s about fairness and preserving our strongest support zones for future elections.”
Restoring the position to Imo would rebuild confidence in PDP’s internal processes, lawmakers argued. Ugochinyere concluded, “We seek only equity. Anything less will weaken PDP and alienate loyal members.” The crisis threatens party unity ahead of critical elections.
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