The lingering crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new turn as a faction of the party’s governors and key stakeholders have thrown their weight behind Sunday Ude-Okoye for the position of National Secretary. This development has further intensified internal tensions within the opposition party, which has been grappling with internal strife since its defeat in the 2023 general elections.
Governors Align with Ude-Okoye Amidst Party Turmoil
A powerful bloc of PDP governors has endorsed Ude-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader of the party, to take over the strategic role of National Secretary. His backing by influential party figures is seen as a move to reposition the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, this endorsement has sparked resistance from other factions within the party, deepening the cracks that have hindered efforts at unification. Many party leaders and stakeholders believe the ongoing infighting could weaken the PDP’s ability to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in future elections.
The Roots of the PDP Crisis
The PDP has been battling internal discord since the build-up to the 2023 elections, when disagreements over zoning, leadership positions, and the presidential ticket led to a fractured party structure. The emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate against the expectations of southern stakeholders further worsened the crisis, leading to the formation of the G5 governors, a group that openly opposed the party’s leadership.
The resignation of Samuel Anyanwu, the former National Secretary, who stepped down to contest the Imo governorship election, left a vacuum that has now become the latest battleground for supremacy within the party. While Ude-Okoye’s endorsement by PDP governors signals a move to consolidate leadership, opposition from other power blocs within the party suggests that unity remains elusive.
Resistance to Ude-Okoye’s Emergence
Despite the backing of PDP governors, some senior party leaders, including members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and other influential stakeholders, have expressed concerns over the process leading to Ude-Okoye’s selection. There are fears that his emergence might be another power play that could alienate certain factions rather than unify the party.
Sources within the party have indicated that some PDP leaders are advocating for a broader consultation process that would ensure inclusivity and avoid the perception of imposition. The National Secretary position is critical to the party’s internal administration, and many believe that whoever occupies the seat must have the full confidence of all party stakeholders.
Implications for the PDP’s Future
The deepening crisis in the PDP raises concerns about its preparedness for the next electoral cycle. With the APC consolidating its hold on power, the PDP’s inability to resolve its leadership tussles could significantly affect its ability to present a formidable challenge in 2027.
Political analysts believe that unless the PDP resolves its internal disputes and presents a united front, it risks losing relevance as Nigeria’s main opposition party. The ongoing power struggle has already led to defections of key members to rival parties, further weakening its national structure.
Calls for Reconciliation and Party Stability
Amid the crisis, some party elders and reconciliation committees have intensified efforts to broker peace. Former PDP leaders have urged party members to put aside their differences and focus on strengthening the party for future elections.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki, in a recent statement, emphasized the need for internal democracy and urged party members to work together for the collective good. Similarly, other party elders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have called for unity and adherence to democratic principles in resolving leadership disputes.
What’s Next for the PDP?
The coming days will be critical for the PDP as it navigates the controversy surrounding the National Secretary position. The manner in which the party leadership handles this crisis will determine whether it emerges stronger or further disintegrates.
With Ude-Okoye’s endorsement by PDP governors, it remains to be seen how opposing factions will react and whether reconciliation efforts will be successful. If the party fails to find a middle ground, the crisis could further erode its electoral chances and push more members towards alternative political platforms.
For now, the PDP remains in a precarious position, and how it manages its internal affairs in the coming months will significantly impact Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
