The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has navigated a turbulent period in Rivers State, marked by internal power struggles and legal battles. The recent acceptance by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) of a court judgment nullifying previously held congresses signifies a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. This decision effectively disbands the former executive committee led by Aaron Chukwuemeka, a known ally of former Governor Nyesom Wike, and installs the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led faction, aligned with the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. This move marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing power struggle between Wike and Fubara for control of the PDP’s machinery in Rivers State.
The conflict between Wike and Fubara has been brewing since the latter’s assumption of office. Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, had seemingly maintained a firm grip on the state’s PDP structure through his loyalists. The congresses held in July, August, and September of 2024, which were contested by both factions, initially resulted in a victory for Wike’s camp. However, Fubara’s allies had withdrawn from the process, citing a court injunction. This withdrawal foreshadowed the legal challenges that would eventually overturn the results of the congresses. The court ruling effectively legitimizes Fubara’s control over the state party structure, solidifying his political influence.
The January 13, 2025 ruling by Justice Stephen Jumbo of the Rivers State High Court serves as the linchpin of this power shift. The court declared the ward, local government, and state congresses conducted under the previous leadership null and void. This decision effectively stripped the Wike-aligned Chukwuemeka of his chairmanship and paved the way for the Ewor-led faction to assume control. Justice Jumbo’s ruling cites procedural irregularities and non-compliance with the party’s constitution as the basis for nullification. This legal intervention has significantly reshaped the political dynamics within the Rivers State PDP, potentially altering the trajectory of future elections.
The PDP’s national leadership, through its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, has publicly endorsed the court’s decision. Ologunagba framed the acceptance of the judgment as a testament to the party’s commitment to internal democracy and the rule of law. This public declaration of support for the Ewor-led faction underscores the national party’s recognition of the changed power dynamics in Rivers State. It also serves as a clear signal to party members to align themselves with the newly recognized leadership, aiming to quell further internal dissent and project an image of unity.
The PDP’s emphasis on unity and stability within its Rivers State chapter is a strategic move to consolidate its position ahead of future elections. The internal wrangling between the Wike and Fubara factions had the potential to weaken the party’s base and create vulnerabilities exploitable by political opponents. By recognizing the Ewor-led executive, the national party seeks to mitigate this risk and present a united front. The call for party members to rally behind the new leadership is a crucial step towards rebuilding internal cohesion and maximizing electoral prospects.
The task ahead for the Ewor-led executive is multifaceted. Beyond consolidating control and unifying the party, they must also focus on strengthening the PDP’s grassroots presence and mobilizing support for future elections. The success of the Ewor faction in achieving these objectives will be a crucial determinant of the PDP’s future performance in Rivers State. Furthermore, the ability of the new leadership to bridge the divide between the Wike and Fubara camps will be essential for long-term stability and electoral success. This reconciliation effort will require deft political maneuvering and a focus on shared goals. The overall impact of this leadership change on the Rivers State political landscape remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a significant turning point in the state’s political dynamics.
