PDP Crisis Deepens as Makinde, Wike Blocs Clash Over Convention

Fresh tensions have erupted within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as factions loyal to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, disagree over plans for the party’s national convention.

 

The Makinde-aligned bloc on Friday rejected the proposed convention scheduled for March 28–29 in Abuja by the Wike-backed faction, describing it as lacking proper consultation and legitimacy.

 

However, the Wike camp insisted the convention would proceed as planned, maintaining that the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) is not recognised.

 

Sources within the party revealed that the Wike-aligned faction has intensified mobilisation efforts across states, engaging delegates and stakeholders ahead of the convention, which it describes as a critical step toward repositioning the party for the 2027 elections.

 

The disagreement underscores a broader struggle over leadership control and the direction of the opposition party, with both camps divided on reconciliation efforts and internal decision-making.

 

The crisis came to a head during the party’s 103rd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, where key stakeholders openly opposed the planned convention.

 

Chairman of PDP State Chairmen, Tony Aziegbemi, criticised the process, accusing party leaders of sidelining consultations.

 

“You must bring more people to the table when sharing positions. We cannot accept a situation where decisions are imposed. Which convention are they talking about? Who agreed to it?” he queried.

 

Similarly, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the leadership was unaware of any convention, describing claims to the contrary as misleading.

 

“Talking about the convention, there’s none to our knowledge,” he said, adding that reconciliation efforts were ongoing, though yet to be fully achieved.

 

National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, acknowledged the internal challenges but expressed optimism that the party would overcome its crisis.

 

“All hope is not lost. We are working to strengthen the party and ensure it remains competitive,” he said.

 

Also speaking, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Adolphus Wabara, warned that time was running out, urging members to prioritise unity amid growing defections.

 

Despite the divisions, the NEC ratified key decisions, including ongoing reconciliation efforts, an appeal against a recent court judgment, and the continuation of electronic membership registration.

 

The unfolding crisis highlights deepening fault lines within the PDP, raising concerns about its cohesion and preparedness ahead of the 2027 general elections.