Nigeria's PDP Splits Deepen as Wike Faction Plans Rival Convention

Nigeria's main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), faces an escalating internal crisis as the faction aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike announces plans for state congresses and a national convention to elect new party leadership.

Factional Leadership Emerges

Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, chairman of the factional Board of Trustees, revealed the ambitious reorganization plans during a meeting at Wike's official residence in Abuja on Sunday. The move represents a direct challenge to the party's established hierarchy and signals a deepening rift within Nigeria's political opposition.

"We are making meaningful progress in reorganising affected states, including the constitution of credible caretaker committees, to prepare the ground for transparent congresses and subsequent convention process," Ohuabunwa declared.

Constitutional Justification

The factional leadership frames its actions within constitutional parameters, emphasizing the Board of Trustees' role as a stabilizing force. Ohuabunwa stressed that the BoT has a "moral responsibility to serve as the stabilising force within the party" and must "safeguard the party's soul."

The faction has thrown its support behind the National Working Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, positioning itself as the legitimate guardian of party principles and democratic processes.

Competing Conventions

This development follows a November convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, organized by a bloc aligned with Governor Seyi Makinde. That gathering produced Turaki Taminu as National Chairman, though it proceeded amid conflicting court orders both permitting and restraining the event.

The Wike faction has challenged the Ibadan convention's legitimacy in court, seeking its nullification and positioning their planned convention as the authentic expression of party democracy.

Implications for Nigerian Democracy

The PDP's internal fragmentation reflects broader challenges facing Nigeria's democratic institutions. As the country's primary opposition party, the PDP's unity remains crucial for effective democratic competition and accountability.

Ohuabunwa emphasized the stakes: "Our duty is clear, to consolidate the reforms already underway, deepen internal cohesion, and ensure that the Peoples Democratic Party emerges stronger, more united, and fully prepared for the leadership responsibilities ahead."

The crisis underscores the importance of transparent, constitutional governance within political parties, principles that extend beyond partisan boundaries to the health of Nigeria's democratic system itself.