The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), once a dominant force in Nigerian politics, is grappling with internal strife that threatens its future viability. Since losing power in 2015, the party has struggled to regain its footing, losing further ground in recent elections and facing challenges from a resurgent Labour Party. Internal conflicts, fueled by personal ambitions and power struggles, have weakened the party’s structure and eroded public trust. Key figures within the PDP are engaged in public disputes, highlighting the deep divisions within the party. The upcoming 2027 elections loom large, and unless the PDP addresses its internal issues, it risks further marginalization in the political landscape.
The party’s internal crisis is multifaceted, encompassing conflicts at various levels. The feud between Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State and his predecessor, now FCT Minister, Siminalayi Fubara, exemplifies the power struggles within state chapters. At the national level, the dispute over the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) leadership has further fractured the PDP. The public clash between Wike and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed over tax bills and party leadership underscores the depth of animosity within the party ranks. These public disagreements not only damage the PDP’s image but also distract from its ability to effectively oppose the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The chaos within the NWC is a particularly damaging aspect of the PDP’s crisis. The contested position of National Secretary, with two individuals claiming the title, has led to physical altercations and legal battles. The ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the position highlight the lack of clear procedures and the tendency for disputes to escalate within the party. The acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has acknowledged the role of party leaders in fueling these conflicts, accusing them of prioritizing personal ambition over the party’s collective interests. This internal sabotage weakens the PDP’s ability to present a united front and effectively challenge the ruling party.
The PDP’s financial woes further complicate its internal struggles. Wike, a major financier of the party, has publicly criticized party leaders and aligned himself with the APC government, raising questions about his loyalty and motives. His willingness to serve in an APC-led administration while remaining a PDP member has drawn accusations of transactional politics and opportunism. This perceived betrayal further erodes trust within the party and undermines efforts to rebuild a strong opposition.
The party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) has expressed concern over the escalating crisis. BoT Chairman, Adolphus Wabara, has called for party leaders to prioritize unity and resolve internal conflicts. The failure to address these issues threatens the PDP’s credibility and undermines its ability to present a viable alternative to the ruling party. The BoT recognizes the urgency of the situation and has urged the NWC to convene a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to address the ongoing crisis.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the PDP faces a crucial decision regarding its presidential candidate. The party must learn from the mistakes of the 2023 election, where internal divisions and a lack of clear direction contributed to its defeat. Deciding early on whether to field a candidate from the North or South would help mitigate potential conflicts and allow the party to focus on building a strong campaign. Failure to address this issue proactively could lead to further internal strife and jeopardize the PDP’s chances in the upcoming election cycle. The party stands at a crossroads, and its future hinges on its ability to overcome internal divisions, rebuild trust, and present a united front to the Nigerian electorate.
