A new crisis has erupted within the Peoples Democratic Party as factions loyal to Seyi Makinde and Nyesom Wike sharply disagree over plans for a national convention, intensifying internal divisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
The bloc aligned with Makinde has rejected the proposed convention scheduled to take place in Abuja, arguing that due process and proper consultations were not followed. This position has created confusion within the opposition party, as the Wike backed faction insists the event will proceed as planned.
The Wike aligned camp has already fixed March 28 to 29, 2026, for the convention, aiming to elect a new National Working Committee. The group maintains that it has completed congresses at ward, local government and state levels, positioning the convention as a turning point to rebuild and strengthen the party’s leadership structure.
However, the rival faction loyal to the party’s National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, has dismissed the plan, insisting that no such convention has been approved. Party leaders at the National Executive Committee meeting expressed concerns over what they described as unilateral decision making and lack of inclusiveness.
At the meeting, key figures including Adolphus Wabara, Fred Agbedi and Tony Aziegbemi voiced strong opposition, warning that sidelining stakeholders could undermine internal democracy and weaken the party further.
Despite calls for reconciliation, tensions remain high. The Turaki led leadership insists that ongoing dialogue is gradually restoring calm, describing the current situation as a fragile pause in hostilities rather than a full resolution.
On the other hand, the Wike aligned National Caretaker Committee argues that court rulings have invalidated the rival leadership, giving it legal backing to proceed. The camp insists the convention is lawful and necessary to reposition the party for future electoral success.
As both sides dig in, the dispute highlights a deeper struggle over legitimacy, control and the future direction of the PDP. With defections rising and internal trust eroding, the crisis poses a significant challenge to the party’s unity and its ability to function as a strong opposition force.
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