A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has issued a formal disclaimer reaffirming the expulsion of 18 prominent politicians. The faction, led by National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, warned the public to beware of “impostors” still parading themselves as party members.
The affected individuals were expelled by the National Executive Committee on November 18 for alleged anti-party activities and gross misconduct, in accordance with the amended 2017 PDP Constitution. The list of expelled members includes Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, among others.
The faction expressed concern over the “embarrassing misrepresentation” by the expelled members, who continue to speak and act in the name of the party. It urged party faithful and the general public to disregard any statements or activities by the affected individuals, stressing that they no longer hold membership or authority within the PDP.
The disclaimer also dismissed a recent gathering in Ibadan involving some of the expelled members, describing it as a mere social event and not a national convention of the PDP. Senator Anyanwu warned that “anybody parading himself as a newly elected national officer of the party is an impostor and a meddlesome interloper.”
The party reiterated that it remains united under its legitimate leadership and called on supporters to continue to align with the constitutionally recognized structures. This development comes a day after the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led faction issued its own counter-statement, claiming that some party leaders had ceased to be members of the PDP.
The escalating war of expulsions underscores the deepening internal crisis within the opposition party, with both factions expelling and disowning each other over alleged anti-party activities. The crisis highlights the challenges facing the PDP as it seeks to reposition itself ahead of future elections. As the party’s internal conflicts continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how the situation will be resolved and what implications it may have for the party’s future.