PDP Convention: No in-fight between Wike and Makinde – Onaiwu

A founding chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Earl Osaro Onaiwu, has dismissed recent reports suggesting a rift between Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, over the forthcoming PDP National Convention, describing such claims as baseless and mischievous.

Onaiwu, who served as the pioneer Director-General of the PDP Governors’ Forum, said the reports were the handiwork of political saboteurs determined to destabilise the party’s unity and progress ahead of the convention.

“There is no rift between Governor Makinde and former Governor Wike. Both men remain committed party leaders and loyal members of the PDP family,” Onaiwu stated in a press release on Thursday. “Those trying to sow discord are simply unhappy with the renewed strength and unity demonstrated at the recent PDP strategic meeting.”

He emphasised that the PDP remains Nigeria’s only truly national party, rooted in democratic values, open dialogue, and internal cohesion, adding that preparations for the upcoming national convention are proceeding smoothly and inclusively.

Onaiwu further revealed that the choice of convention venue and modalities were collectively agreed upon by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), the National Executive Committee (NEC), and other stakeholders in the presence of officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He urged members of the public and the media to disregard the circulating reports of internal crisis, assuring that the party remains focused on building momentum toward reclaiming national leadership in 2027.

“The PDP is not distracted by sponsored propaganda. Our mission is clear, our ranks are united, and our vision is focused on delivering competent leadership to Nigerians once again,” Onaiwu concluded.