By Erewunmi Peace

Former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki has declared that he will not participate in the forthcoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention, describing it as “a waste of efforts” amid ongoing legal and internal party disputes.

In a statement released on Thursday, Saraki said the decision followed conflicting court orders surrounding the convention’s legality and leadership issues within the party. The convention, scheduled to hold in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15–16, has faced uncertainty after multiple factions laid claim to the party’s executive authority.

“At this time, I cannot in good conscience be part of a process that lacks clarity and legitimacy,” Saraki stated.
“Proceeding with the convention under these circumstances is a waste of efforts and could further divide our great party.”

Saraki urged the party to instead establish a caretaker committee that would rebuild trust, reconcile aggrieved members, and organize a legitimate convention once all legal matters are resolved. He warned that ignoring court rulings and internal concerns could jeopardize the PDP’s credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former Senate President also called on party elders and stakeholders to intervene swiftly to restore unity and direction to the PDP, noting that the party’s strength has always depended on collective leadership and respect for due process.

The PDP, once Nigeria’s ruling party, has been battling leadership tussles and factional crises since its loss in the 2015 presidential election. The current legal disputes have further deepened divisions, with some members insisting the planned convention is unauthorized.

As of press time, the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) has not issued an official response to Saraki’s remarks, though insiders say emergency consultations are underway to prevent further cracks within the party.