The leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified, as rival factions continue to assert control over the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Monday, a faction aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and led by the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Adolphus Wabara, announced the appointment of a 13-member interim National Working Committee (NWC). Wabara explained that the decision followed a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which upheld the nullification of the party’s Ibadan convention. According to him, the judgment effectively created a leadership vacuum within the party.
He stated that the formation of the interim committee was carried out in line with the provisions of the PDP constitution. The committee is headed by former National Chairman Tanimu Turaki and is expected to stabilize the party while repositioning its leadership structure during the current period of uncertainty.
The decision to constitute the interim NWC was reached at a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting convened by the Turaki-led bloc at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. The move highlights the determination of the Makinde-aligned faction to reorganize the party’s leadership and strengthen its internal framework in preparation for future electoral contests.
However, this development has been strongly contested by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who insists that the PDP remains united under a single leadership. Wike rejected claims of any internal division, maintaining that the party is not fragmented.
Reacting to the same Supreme Court judgment, Wike argued that the ruling had effectively resolved all lingering disputes within the party. Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, he stated that the judgment marked the end of what he described as “so-called factions” within the PDP. According to him, there is only one unified party.
Wike further dismissed assertions that the court’s decision created a leadership vacuum, emphasizing that his camp remains the legitimate authority within the PDP. He also addressed speculation surrounding the status of the party’s National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, clarifying that the issue of his suspension was not before the court and therefore was not part of the judgment.
The differing interpretations of the Supreme Court ruling have further exposed deep divisions within the PDP, with both factions claiming legitimacy and control. As the party moves closer to the 2027 elections, the ongoing power struggle raises concerns about its unity, stability, and readiness to compete effectively.
Ultimately, how the PDP resolves its internal crisis and establishes a clear leadership structure will play a crucial role in shaping its political future and electoral prospects.
