The ongoing leadership turmoil within Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new turn as allies of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, strongly oppose the PDP governors’ decision on a new National Secretary. This dispute threatens to widen the cracks within the party, which has been struggling with internal conflicts since the 2023 general elections.
PDP Governors Push for a New National Secretary
In a recent meeting, PDP governors deliberated on selecting a replacement for Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the outgoing National Secretary. Among the leading candidates for the position are Dr. Osita Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation, and Ude Okoye, the party’s former National Youth Leader. The governors aim to finalize the appointment to strengthen the party’s administrative leadership and reposition it ahead of future elections.
However, Wike’s allies are resisting this move, arguing that the selection process has been unfair and lacks broad consultation. They insist that major party stakeholders must be involved in such a crucial decision to ensure fairness and unity within the PDP.
Wike’s Allies Challenge the Governors’ Authority
Supporters of Wike are concerned that the governors’ decision is an attempt to sideline their influence within the party. They argue that the PDP leadership should be chosen through collective consultation rather than being dictated by a select group. This standoff has deepened the division between pro-Wike loyalists and PDP governors who are determined to assert their authority in party affairs.
There are fears that imposing a National Secretary without achieving consensus could further destabilize the PDP, which has already been struggling to maintain unity since the last general elections. Wike’s allies insist that any new appointment must be a product of proper dialogue and agreement among all party factions.
The Controversy Surrounding Acting Chairman Umar Damagum
Another source of tension within the PDP is the leadership of Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman. His tenure has sparked controversy, with some governors supporting his continuation while others, including Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, argue that his position violates the party’s constitution.
According to PDP zoning arrangements, the position of National Chairman should be occupied by a representative from the North-Central region, rather than Damagum, who hails from the North-East. This disagreement has caused further rifts within the party leadership.
Division Among PDP Governors
Even among the governors, there is no unified stance on the leadership issue. Some, like Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, support Damagum’s leadership, while others, including Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, insist on following the party’s constitution in appointing a new chairman. This division reflects the deeper struggle for control within the PDP.
Wike’s Warning to Fellow Governors
Amidst the growing tension, Wike has openly warned PDP governors supporting his successor, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to stay out of the state’s political affairs. He has threatened political retaliation against any governor who interferes, stating that he has the power to destabilize their political strongholds if necessary.
This direct confrontation highlights the deepening power struggle within the PDP and raises concerns about potential political instability if the conflict escalates further.
The Future of the PDP: A Party at Crossroads
The ongoing leadership crisis poses a significant threat to the PDP’s future. As an opposition party, unity and strategic planning are essential for its survival and electoral success. However, the internal power struggle could weaken the party’s structure and influence in national politics.
Political analysts argue that the PDP must urgently resolve these conflicts through genuine dialogue and adherence to its constitution. Without a clear resolution, the party risks losing credibility and relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As the situation unfolds, PDP stakeholders and observers will be watching closely to see how the leadership handles these pressing issues. Whether the party can emerge stronger from this crisis or continue to fracture will depend on the ability of its leaders to prioritize unity over personal interests.
