A faction within Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, has warned that it will undermine the party’s upcoming national convention unless its demands are met. After a closed‑door meeting in Abuja, the group—comprising several senior party members and former governors—issued a communique calling for fresh congresses in Ebonyi and Anambra states and for the recognition of a South‑South zonal congress held in Calabar.
The PDP is already grappling with internal divisions, and Wike’s camp insists the party must comply with court judgments and conduct the new congresses as stipulated. The faction cautioned that failure to do so would render the national convention, scheduled for November, invalid. This threat has created uncertainty within the party, with some leaders fearing that acceding to Wike’s demands could deepen existing rifts.
In response, PDP governors have pledged to enforce party discipline and refuse to yield to “arrogance or impunity.” Bala Mohammed, chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, stressed that the party will not be distracted and that the convention will proceed as planned. Meanwhile, former PDP National Legal Adviser Jacob Mark has claimed that Wike is no longer a party member, citing his lack of participation in party activities.
Analysts warn that the PDP must act swiftly to address Wike’s threat and avoid further destabilisation. Presenting a united front ahead of the national convention is crucial, and how the party manages Wike’s demands will shape its future direction. As the convention approaches, the PDP must navigate these internal challenges to maintain relevance and coherence. The outcome of the convention will be closely watched, given its significant implications for the party’s ability to pose a credible challenge to the ruling party. The unfolding situation will reveal whether the PDP can reconcile Wike’s camp’s demands and preserve unity among its members.
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