The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held its much-anticipated national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15-16, 2025, but the event was marred by notable absences from key party leaders. Despite the importance of the convention, especially amid the ongoing legal battles and internal crises within the party, at least three PDP governors were conspicuously absent from the proceedings.
The Ibadan convention was held at a critical juncture for the opposition party, which is gearing up for the upcoming 2027 elections. However, the absence of these prominent governors raised questions about the state of the party and its unity. Additionally, the convention was not observed by INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission), which is a significant concern given the legal disputes surrounding the event.
Governors Who Boycotted the PDP Convention
The following PDP governors did not attend the convention:
- Governor Siminalayi Fubara – Rivers State
Governor Fubara has been at the center of Rivers State’s political drama, especially following his suspension by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025. Although Fubara’s suspension was lifted in September 2025, he remained absent from the convention. The Rivers State governor, who took office in 2023, had not officially defected from the PDP, but his absence at this crucial event reflected the party’s internal struggles and divisions. - Governor Ademola Adeleke – Osun State
Adeleke, the governor of Osun, has also been a subject of internal PDP conflicts. He won the Osun State gubernatorial election in 2022 on the PDP platform, defeating the incumbent Isiaka Oyetola of the APC. Despite the internal challenges facing the PDP, Adeleke expressed confidence that his re-election bid for 2026 would not be hindered by the party’s current issues. However, he was notably absent at the Ibadan convention, casting further doubt on the party’s unity. - Governor Agbu Kefas – Taraba State
Agbu Kefas, who has been a PDP governor since 2023, also failed to attend the convention. There were reports that Kefas had aligned himself with the APC after being handed over to the party’s national chairman, but he had not officially defected from the PDP. His absence at the convention mirrors the unresolved crisis within the party, and his non-participation only intensified the debate on the party’s future direction.
PDP’s Internal Crisis and Convention Challenges
The absence of these influential governors was not the only controversy surrounding the PDP convention. The event took place without the presence of INEC observers and was conducted amidst court injunctions. These issues raised concerns about the legality and credibility of the event, with several analysts questioning the party’s ability to resolve its internal conflicts ahead of the 2027 elections.
The PDP is currently facing several challenges, including leadership disputes, factionalism, and growing public distrust. The party’s failure to unite its governors and other key stakeholders has raised doubts about its readiness for the upcoming electoral battles. This crisis also casts a shadow on the PDP’s ability to mount a credible challenge against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
PDP’s Stance on the Convention
Despite the absences, the PDP moved forward with its convention and made significant announcements, including the suspension of high-profile members such as Nyesom Wike, Ayodele Fayose, and Samuel Anyanwu. The party also expelled several individuals, including its national legal adviser, Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN), and others who were seen as opposing the current leadership.
The PDP leadership, while acknowledging internal challenges, remains determined to push forward with its agenda for 2027, despite the setbacks faced during the Ibadan convention.
Public Reactions and Political Analyst Comments
Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions regarding the boycotts and suspensions within the PDP. Some commentators praised the PDP’s resilience and commitment to reforms, while others, like Political Analyst Dr. Toks Oguntuga, criticized the party for its continued internal turmoil.
One Nigerian citizen, Sadam, applauded the PDP for taking bold steps in the face of adversity:
“This is the true legacy of Nigeria, not just by word, but by decades of undeniable action. No other African nation has carried the weight of the continent on its shoulders like Nigeria.”
However, Esty raised concerns over Nigeria’s domestic issues, questioning why the country could not resolve its internal security issues, despite its external interventions:
“And we can’t even save ourselves from terrorists and bandits attacking and killing our citizens and soldiers. A general was killed, and nothing was done.”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the PDP?
The PDP faces a critical test ahead of the 2027 elections, with the party’s internal divisions and the absence of key governors from major events like the Ibadan convention presenting significant challenges. However, if the party can find a way to resolve its internal issues, unite its members, and present a credible candidate for the presidency, it could still pose a serious challenge to the APC.
