Tensions Rise in PDP as Wike’s Camp Plans Fightback After Ibadan Convention

The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new turn, with signs that the battle for control is now shifting to the state level following a heated national convention held in Ibadan over the weekend.

Sources within the party revealed that supporters of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike are gearing up for a strong response after the convention led by former acting chairman Umar Damagum announced the expulsion of Wike, former Ekiti Governor Ayo Fayose, PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and Dan Orbih.

In addition to the expulsions, the party dissolved its State Working Committees in Abia, Imo, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River, further deepening the divide.

The convention drew attendance from several governors, including Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau). However, Fintiri and Mutfwang have since distanced themselves from the decision to expel key figures, signaling disagreement within the party’s leadership.

The move is widely seen as an escalation of the ongoing power struggle between Wike and the PDP Governors’ Forum, particularly with Governors Mohammed and Makinde at the helm.

With the 2027 elections approaching, the party appears increasingly divided. Wike’s allies are reportedly holding consultations and plan to meet in Abuja this week to assess the situation and decide on their next steps.

Insiders say a counter strategy is already in motion, and a formal response to the convention’s decisions is expected soon, potentially reshaping the PDP’s internal dynamics in the months ahead.