Drama Behind The Scenes: What Really Went Down At The PDP Governors’ Meeting With Wike And Saraki

Amid a surge in defections and internal strife, seven governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alongside prominent party figures including ex-governors and former National Assembly leaders, convened in Abuja on Sunday to deliberate on the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The high-level strategy meeting, initiated by Senator Bala Mohammed—Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum—was held at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro. The gathering aimed to arrest the party’s downward trajectory and counter what many perceive as a looming one-party dominance in Nigeria.

Who Attended and Who Didn’t

Governors present at the meeting included Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and Dauda Lawal (Zamfara). However, the absence of four governors—Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), and Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers)—raised eyebrows, fueling speculation about widening cracks within the party, particularly in states grappling with rising APC influence or internal party tensions.

Also present were PDP Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, and several influential former governors including Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Achike Udenwa (Imo).

Notably, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was also in attendance, signaling his continued political weight in PDP affairs despite ongoing internal rifts. Other attendees included former Senate President Bukola Saraki and ex-Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Main Issues Discussed: Defections and Future Strategy

According to insider sources, the discussions primarily revolved around the recent wave of defections destabilizing the PDP. Notable departures include Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, and several lawmakers from Kebbi State—all of whom have reportedly defected to the APC following meetings with President Bola Tinubu.

The party leaders reportedly used the opportunity to address internal conflicts—especially wrangling within the National Working Committee (NWC) and the unsettled issue of the National Secretary’s position. They also discussed preparations for the forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27, as well as the party’s next National Elective Convention.

While the official agenda was not disclosed, it was learned that deliberations touched on potential alliances with other opposition parties versus strengthening the PDP from within. Plans to support PDP candidates in upcoming off-cycle elections in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun were also on the table, as part of broader efforts to build momentum for 2027.

Atiku’s Camp Raises Concern

Meanwhile, Mazi Paul Ibe, spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expressed concern over signs of internal sabotage that could threaten the PDP’s cohesion and future prospects.