The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2025 National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC) has announced that the party’s forthcoming elective convention will be open to all qualified aspirants, allowing them to freely test their popularity.

Chairman of the NCOC and Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri, made this known on Monday in Abuja at the inaugural meeting of the Protocol Sub-committee, chaired by Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State.

Fintiri assured party members that the convention process would be transparent and credible.

“We are not going to deny anybody the opportunity to contest. I will also ensure, through my advice, that the screening committee conducts its work without any manipulation.
Everyone who has purchased forms and has no encumbrances — either in their documents or past conduct — will be screened.
Go and test your popularity on the field. We are finalising the delegates’ list, which will be published just as we did with the sub-committees. This will enable aspirants to reach out and canvass for votes,” he said.

Fintiri emphasised that the process would be open and democratic.

“We are not running a closed system. It’s a true democracy. If you believe you are popular, go to the field and test your strength. At the end of the day, those supported by the majority will emerge victorious,” he added.

The governor commended members of the sub-committees—comprising former governors, ministers, and senators—for their commitment, saying their calibre reflected the high expectations for a successful convention.

He pledged that the NCOC would leave no stone unturned to deliver a credible and well-organised convention that would produce capable leaders for the PDP.

“Apart from Islam, the PDP is next to any association that has given me everything I have achieved in life. I will forever remain grateful to this party,” Fintiri said.

In his remarks, the Sub-committee Chairman, Governor Mutfwang, urged members to give their best to ensure a successful convention.

“I have always maintained that those who founded the PDP would not wish to see it die in our time. We therefore have a duty to keep this platform alive for the people of Nigeria,” Mutfwang said.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Deputy Chairman of the Sub-committee, Senator Olalere Oyewunmi, described the inaugural session as fruitful, noting that participants shared fresh ideas towards ensuring a seamless convention.

“The protocol unit is central to the success of other sub-committees. The PDP is known for progress, meticulous planning, and effective political organisation. Ibadan, the chosen venue, has a rich political history, and members have proposed strategies to ensure the convention is smooth and rancour-free,” he said.

Also speaking, the Sub-committee Secretary and Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, said Ibadan was fully prepared to host party members and citizens attending the convention.

“Oyo State has always been a political hotbed and is ready to host dignitaries from across Nigeria. The PDP remains one of the few truly national parties representing all sections of our country.
We are ready to receive party faithful and notable Nigerians from the 36 states and the FCT,” she said.