The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) finds itself entangled in a web of internal conflicts, primarily fueled by a growing rift between factions loyal to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike. This escalating tension threatens the stability of the party and casts a shadow over the upcoming 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27, 2025. Wike’s dramatic withdrawal from reconciliation efforts, citing Makinde and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah as the root of the discord, has further deepened the crisis. The party’s Board of Trustees, recognizing the potential damage of another postponement of the crucial NEC meeting, has called for an urgent meeting to address the escalating tensions and seek a path towards resolution.
At the heart of the conflict lies a power struggle within the PDP, exacerbated by unresolved issues stemming from the 2023 elections and internal disputes over key positions and zonal congresses. Wike, supported by Governors Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) and Ahmadu Fintiri (Taraba), accuses Makinde, Mbah, and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed of undermining the political structure of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, a position held by Wike. The primary point of contention revolves around the recognition of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the party’s National Secretary, a position Wike insists upon. Makinde and his allies, however, oppose Anyanwu’s reinstatement, further fueling the discord.
The PDP’s attempts at reconciliation have been repeatedly thwarted, with interventions from the National Working Committee (NWC), the Board of Trustees, the NEC, and the Governors’ Forum failing to bridge the widening gap between the warring factions. The 99th NEC meeting, crucial for charting the party’s future course, has been postponed multiple times due to these internal squabbles. The latest postponement comes despite the formation of a seven-member reconciliation committee, led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki, tasked with resolving the outstanding issues and paving the way for a productive NEC meeting.
Wike’s public withdrawal from the reconciliation process underscores the severity of the crisis. Accusing Makinde of being the “chief culprit” behind the party’s troubles, Wike alleges breaches of agreements and deliberate efforts to undermine his allies. He specifically points to Makinde’s alleged collaboration with Governor Mbah to oppose Anyanwu’s reinstatement and create further chaos within the party’s leadership structure. This includes allegedly orchestrating a situation where a letter signed by the National Secretary and Acting National Chairman was countered, creating confusion and undermining the party’s official communications.
The fallout from Wike’s accusations has sent ripples through the party, with reactions ranging from condemnation to calls for his expulsion. Some state chapters of the PDP have criticized Wike’s actions as detrimental to the party, accusing him of harboring a hidden agenda and working against the PDP’s interests. Others have downplayed his significance, suggesting that his exit from the party is imminent and would not significantly impact the PDP’s future. Amidst these conflicting views, the party’s leadership faces the daunting task of restoring unity and ensuring the scheduled NEC meeting proceeds without exacerbating the existing tensions.
Saraki, leading the reconciliation committee, remains hopeful that Wike can be persuaded to return to the negotiating table. Recognizing the vital role of the PDP as a major opposition force in Nigeria’s democracy, Saraki stresses the importance of preventing the party from descending into oblivion. The emergency meeting convened by the Saraki-led panel aims to address the immediate concerns and find a way to hold the NEC meeting peacefully and productively. The outcome of this meeting will likely determine the immediate future of the PDP and its ability to navigate the current crisis. The Board of Trustees meeting adds another layer of complexity, as it will grapple with the fallout of Wike’s accusations and the overall state of disunity within the party. The next few days will undoubtedly be critical for the PDP, with the party standing at a crossroads, its future hanging in the balance.
