PDP Crisis Reaches Boiling Point as Wike’s Camp Moves to Oust Atiku’s Loyalists
The internal crisis within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has escalated to unprecedented heights, with the faction loyal to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike intensifying efforts to sideline supporters of the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. This development is the latest in a series of events that have been unfolding since the party’s national convention last year.
Sources within the party have revealed that Wike’s camp is gearing up to enforce disciplinary measures, including expulsions and suspensions, targeting opponents at various levels—state, local government, and ward. This move is seen as a strategic attempt to consolidate power and neutralize opposition, particularly those critical of the Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC).
Among the targets of Wike’s camp is Ikenga Ugochinyere, a prominent PDP lawmaker, whose vocal criticism has reportedly drawn the ire of the Wike faction. “There’s a deliberate plan to move against party members and even members of the public who oppose their interests,” a party source told Punch.
The crisis has further polarized the PDP Governors’ Forum, with a clear divide between those supporting Damagum’s continued leadership and those advocating for his replacement. Four governors – Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba) – are aligned with Wike in supporting Damagum. On the other hand, the PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, Bala Mohammed (Bauchi); Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara; and Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, are reportedly opposed to Damagum continuing in acting capacity.
As the crisis deepens, party insiders are worried about the implications of this power struggle on the party’s chances in future elections. With the party’s National Elective Convention planning committee set to be established next year, all eyes are on the PDP leadership to see how they will navigate this challenging situation.
Key Players in the Crisis:
–Nyesom Wike: Former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), whose faction is leading the charge against Atiku’s loyalists.
–Atiku Abubakar: The PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, whose supporters are being targeted by Wike’s camp.
– Umar Damagum: The embattled acting National Chairman of the PDP, whose leadership has been under scrutiny.
– Ikenga Ugochinyere: A prominent PDP lawmaker, who has been critical of the Damagum-led NWC and is now a target of Wike’s camp.
