ABUJA — The ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened on Monday as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, openly criticised the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, over growing divisions in the party.
Wike made the remarks during a meeting of a faction of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, amid escalating tensions following a controversial court ruling that has further split the opposition party.
The internal dispute intensified after the Court of Appeal nullified the PDP national convention held on November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan. The convention had produced Kabiru Turaki as national chairman.
The ruling has thrown the party into uncertainty, with rival factions emerging and laying claim to leadership. Political observers warn that the division could weaken the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections if not resolved quickly.
Party stakeholders have since called for reconciliation, urging both camps to unite to avoid missing the opportunity to field candidates in the next election cycle.
Speaking earlier on the crisis, Governor Makinde defended his faction, insisting that they have strong grassroots support despite challenges.
“We need Nigerians to judge,” he said. “If you can be in their camp, where they promised to support the president, so be it. We are not begrudging them.”
Makinde further alleged that the opposing faction enjoys institutional backing.
“They have the government behind them. They have the judiciary behind them. They have INEC behind them. But we have the people behind us,” he added.
Responding sharply, Wike accused the Oyo governor of escalating tensions unnecessarily and engaging in a political battle beyond his capacity.
“A fight you can’t fight, don’t start it,” Wike said, suggesting that Makinde lacks the influence needed to prevail in the ongoing power struggle.
His remarks highlight the deepening rift within the party, as senior figures continue to exchange public criticisms.
Despite the divisions, Abdulrahman Mohammed reaffirmed that the faction’s planned national convention, scheduled for March 29 and 30, will proceed as planned.
He dismissed reports of attempts by Makinde’s camp to stop the exercise, describing them as efforts to destabilise the party.
Mohammed also expressed confidence in the PDP’s future as a major opposition force, urging members to remain disciplined and united during the crisis.
The continued infighting raises concerns about the PDP’s readiness for the 2027 elections. Analysts warn that prolonged disunity could weaken the party’s ability to challenge the ruling party effectively.
For now, the situation remains fluid, with both factions holding firm to their positions as calls for reconciliation grow louder within Nigeria’s political landscape.
