As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares for its North Central Zonal Congress scheduled for May 24, 2025, in Jos, Plateau State, concerns are mounting over alleged attempts by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to infiltrate and manipulate the process.
The North Central Unity Forum for Good Governance Initiative has raised alarm over what it describes as a coordinated effort led by Senator Phillip Aduda, allegedly in collusion with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to seize control of the PDP’s North Central structure.
In a statement released over the weekend, the Forum’s Secretary-General, Mr. Muhammad K.B. Nma, claimed that Aduda, who has been politically aligned with Wike since losing his FCT senatorial seat to Labour Party’s Ireti Kingibe, is working behind the scenes to influence the outcome of the congress.
According to the group, Aduda is allegedly backing Abdulrahman Ibrahim—believed to have previously been planted as PDP’s national auditor—as the next North Central Zonal Chairman. His objective, they argue, is to covertly secure the region’s PDP structure for the APC in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.
A PDP chieftain in the FCT, speaking anonymously, accused Aduda and his allies of using their connection to the FCT Minister to pressure delegates and offer financial inducements to secure support for their preferred candidate.
Dr. Isaac Nwaoye, a prominent PDP member from the South East, emphasized the potential consequences of the alleged plot. “The North Central zone is the birthplace of the PDP and a crucial pillar for the party’s national appeal. If hijacked, it could cripple the PDP’s strength ahead of 2027,” he warned.
He also pointed to a recent photograph of Abdulrahman Ibrahim with the FCT Minister as evidence of the alliance, suggesting a calculated strategy to sway the congress results through backdoor dealings.
Another anonymous former PDP Board of Trustees (BOT) member expressed disappointment in the silence of North Central PDP leaders, urging them to act swiftly and decisively to maintain the integrity of the party.
“The silence is deafening. Party leaders must speak with one voice and defend the PDP’s legacy,” the source said.
With just days left before the congress, political observers and Nigerians alike are closely watching. Many fear that if these allegations go unaddressed, it could deepen divisions within the PDP and accelerate the drift toward a one-party system—threatening Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
The PDP’s ability to restore internal stability and transparency in Jos will be a crucial test of its readiness to reclaim its role as a credible opposition force in the country.
