By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Fresh tensions have erupted within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following a bold move by the camp loyal to Nyesom Wike to commence preparations for nationwide party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At the centre of the renewed crisis is the outcome of the 108th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, where leaders aligned with Wike declared an end to internal uncertainty and announced a strategic roadmap focused on consolidation and electoral readiness.
Speaking at the meeting, factional National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, emphasised discipline, institutional reforms, and strict adherence to party structures, insisting that the PDP was now positioned to conduct transparent and credible primaries in line with guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Wike, Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, reinforced the call for unity, urging party leaders to intensify reconciliation efforts and re-engage members who defected amid the prolonged leadership tussle. He stressed that inclusiveness and internal cohesion remain critical to rebuilding the party’s strength and competitiveness.
Also lending his voice, Board of Trustees Chairman, Mao Ohuabunwa, called for collective responsibility, urging stakeholders to set aside personal ambitions and prioritise the party’s unity and long-term stability.
However, the move has been strongly rejected by a rival faction led by Tanimu Turaki, which dismissed the NEC meeting as illegitimate and accused Wike’s camp of acting as agents of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The group warned members against recognising decisions taken at what it described as a “compromised gathering.”
The Turaki-led bloc, reportedly backed by influential governors including Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, has escalated the dispute by petitioning INEC to withdraw recognition from the rival leadership.
Legal battles have further complicated the crisis, with multiple suits pending in court over the party’s leadership structure. Notably, factional National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, has challenged a court ruling that upheld his expulsion, signaling that the judiciary may ultimately determine the legitimacy of the contending factions.
Despite the deepening divisions, the Wike-aligned leadership insists the PDP is on a recovery path. In a communiqué issued after the NEC meeting, the faction expressed confidence in its National Working Committee, reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy, institutional reforms, and grassroots mobilisation through initiatives such as electronic membership registration.
As the battle for control intensifies, the PDP faces a critical test of unity and relevance as Nigeria’s main opposition party, with its ability to resolve internal conflicts likely to shape its prospects in the 2027 elections.
