Tensions are rising within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of its National Convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, as former Jigawa State Governor and party stalwart, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has threatened legal action against the party leadership over his inability to obtain the nomination form for the position of National Chairman.
Lamido arrived at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, on Monday morning, accompanied by supporters, with the intention of purchasing the nomination form. However, he was reportedly denied access to the form after discovering that key offices were locked and relevant officials were unavailable.
Speaking to journalists outside the party headquarters, Lamido expressed frustration and accused the PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, of deliberately obstructing the process. “I came here to purchase my form because, by the party constitution, sales of forms are normally done at the party headquarters,” Lamido stated. “But to my surprise, the office of the National Organising Secretary was locked, and no one could give me a clear answer.”
Lamido’s grievance comes amid internal party zoning arrangements. The PDP’s National Executive Committee had earlier zoned the 2027 presidential ticket to the South and the National Chairmanship to the North. Northern PDP leaders subsequently micro-zoned the chairmanship to the North West, where Lamido hails from.
Describing the situation as “strange and embarrassing,” Lamido warned that if he remained unable to obtain the form, he would seek redress in court. “This is unacceptable and undemocratic. If the party leadership continues to deny me access, I will not hesitate to take legal action,” he said.