Amanze Chinonye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is embroiled in a deepening leadership crisis as rival factions led by Kabiru Turaki and Nyesom Wike continue to publicly expel each other’s members, heightening uncertainty within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) released a statement confirming the expulsion of 11 senior party figures during the PDP’s elective convention in Ibadan from November 15–16. The list includes Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, former National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose, and eight other prominent members.
The notice, signed by Turaki as national chairman, carried photographs of the expelled members and cautioned that “any interactions or representations made by these individuals are not authorised by our party.” It further warned that anyone engaging with them “does so at their own risk.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAnyanwu Rejects PDP Expulsion, Says Ibadan Convention ‘Invalid’, Politically Motivated
Turaki explained that the move was part of an effort to “restore discipline and integrity” within the PDP. “These steps were necessary to remove elements who have repeatedly acted against the party’s interests, including holding parallel congresses, sponsoring litigations, and canvassing votes for rival parties,” he said.
Expulsion certificates were formally handed over to the affected members in Abuja on December 2, following the handover from Umar Damagum.
Responding swiftly, the Wike-led faction issued its own disclaimer, listing 18 politicians allegedly expelled by its National Executive Committee (NEC) on November 18 for “anti-party conduct” and “gross misconduct.”
Among those named were Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal, and Kabiru Turaki. The faction claimed that the individuals were “falsely presenting themselves as party members or officeholders” and urged the public to disregard any claims from them.
The Wike faction also dismissed the Ibadan convention as illegitimate, calling it “a charade and mere social gathering” outside the party’s constitutional framework. Its notice described anyone claiming to be a newly elected national officer from the Turaki camp as “an impostor and meddlesome interloper.”
Political analysts warn that the ongoing feud, marked by competing leadership claims and expulsion certificates, risks weakening the PDP’s organizational cohesion and public credibility as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Amid the turmoil, former military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has urged Turaki to focus on rebuilding the party, correcting past mistakes, and prioritizing unity and consultation among members.
“The PDP is bigger than any individual or faction,” IBB emphasized, calling for reconciliation and strengthened party structures.
With both factions insisting on their legitimacy, it remains unclear which leadership will gain recognition from institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies.
The dueling disclaimers underscore the depth of the internal rift and the urgent need for resolution within one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
