The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has successfully conducted its North-Central Zonal Congress in Jos, Plateau State, electing new officials to steer the affairs of the party in the region. Held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Langfield Leisure Park, the congress drew delegates and party faithful from the six states of the zone and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The congress was hosted by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and marked a significant step in the PDP’s ongoing efforts to restructure its internal systems and reposition ahead of future political contests.
Hon. Abdullrahman Mohammed emerged as the new Zonal Chairman and National Vice Chairman (North Central) after defeating Hon. Stephen Ajiya with a wide margin—securing 536 votes against Ajiya’s 18 votes.
Other officials elected include:
- Hon. Francis Orogu as Zonal Secretary
- Ambassador Beauty Sudar Aliyu as Zonal National Ex-Officio
- Hon. Mohammed Sani as Zonal Ex-Officio representing Nasarawa State
The newly elected officials were sworn in by the PDP’s National Legal Adviser, who administered the oath of office shortly after the announcement of results.
In his address at the event, Governor Mutfwang commended the peaceful conduct of the congress and charged the new leadership to uphold the party’s values and legacy.
“You have a duty to sustain the legacy of the PDP and work collectively towards a better and stronger party that is ready to address the yearnings of Nigerians,” the governor stated.
Also speaking, PDP chieftain and former Nasarawa State governorship candidate, Hon. David Ombugadu, expressed confidence in the new zonal team, saying their emergence signals renewed strength for the party in the region.
“We are optimistic that this new leadership will reinvigorate the party structure in the North Central and ensure that the PDP remains the credible alternative for Nigerians,” Ombugadu noted.
Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, who was also present at the congress, dismissed rumors of the party’s decline, insisting that the PDP remains a formidable political force.
“The PDP is not collapsing. With the emergence of new leaders at all levels—from the ward to the national level—our party is bouncing back. This process is breathing new life into the PDP, and Nigeria will not become a one-party state,” Moro declared.
He praised the large turnout and enthusiasm of delegates, noting that the congress was one of a series of planned activities leading to the PDP National Convention, where a new national leadership will be elected.
The successful conduct of the North-Central Zonal Congress marks a key milestone in the PDP’s rebuilding efforts as it looks to reclaim its position as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.