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Internal Crisis Rocks PDP as Key Leaders Face Expulsion
Factional Rift Deepens Within the Peoples Democratic Party
A significant faction within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), spearheaded by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, alongside the party’s embattled National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has declared the expulsion of several prominent party figures. Among those expelled are Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, and former Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Bode George.
Additional individuals affected include Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, the recently inaugurated National Chairman Tanimu Turaki (SAN), Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja, and others closely associated with the party’s leadership.
Escalation Following Turmoil at PDP National Secretariat
This announcement followed a tense and dramatic confrontation at the PDP’s national secretariat located at Wadata Plaza, Abuja. The Wike-led faction convened an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Tuesday, where they justified the expulsions by citing “anti-party activities” and ongoing “sabotage” allegedly perpetrated by the expelled members.
State Executives Dissolved Amidst Party Reorganization
In addition to the expulsions, the faction dissolved the party’s executive committees in six states: Oyo, Lagos, Bauchi, Ekiti, Zamfara, and Yobe. Plans were announced to establish new caretaker committees aimed at restoring discipline and unity within the party ranks.
NEC’s Official Statement Highlights Breaches and Disciplinary Actions
Senator Anyanwu, reading the official communique, emphasized the NEC’s commitment to upholding the party’s constitution and the rule of law. The statement underscored concerns over members who defied existing court orders by organizing an unauthorized convention, which the NEC said led to confusion, factionalism, and defections among governors and legislators nationwide.
The NEC received a detailed report from Acting National Chairman Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed, outlining violations of Articles 58(1) and 59(1) of the party’s constitution. These included acts of disobedience, anti-party conduct, and behavior damaging to the party’s reputation.
Comprehensive List of Disciplinary Measures
Following the report, the NEC approved disciplinary proceedings against a broad list of members, including Adolphus Wabara, Olabode George, Ben N. Obi, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), Bala Mohammed, Oluseyi Makinde, Dauda Lawal, Taofiq Arapaja, and others. Additionally, Chief Ali Odefa was ordered to refund all salaries and allowances received after his expulsion in December 2024.
Structural Changes and Leadership Appointments
The NEC ratified the dissolution of state executive committees in Bauchi, Oyo, Zamfara, Yobe, Lagos, and Ekiti, directing the National Working Committee (NWC) to form caretaker committees and initiate fresh congresses promptly. The Edo State executive committee, led by Barrister Nosa Ogieva, received formal approval.
Furthermore, deputies in all vacant NWC positions, resulting from the expulsions, were instructed to assume acting roles and participate fully as NWC members. The NEC also officially confirmed Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman as the Acting National Chairman.
Legal and Reconciliation Initiatives to Strengthen Party Cohesion
The NEC mandated the party’s legal team and NWC to pursue constitutional actions aimed at reclaiming seats held by elected officials who defected from the PDP, referencing Sections 68(1)(g) and 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution.
In a bid to heal internal divisions, the NEC approved a comprehensive reconciliation program designed to rebuild trust without compromising discipline. A nationwide membership audit and revalidation process will commence ahead of the 2027 general elections, reflecting the party’s commitment to transparency and renewal.
Commitment to Discipline and Future Prospects
Recognizing the anxiety among party members, the NEC reassured the PDP faithful that these decisive actions aim to stabilize and fortify the party. The communique declared an end to the era of indiscipline, affirming that the PDP will no longer tolerate lawlessness or personal ambitions undermining collective goals.
With renewed unity, discipline, and focus, the PDP intends to rebuild its strength and restore public confidence as it prepares for the upcoming electoral cycle.
Leadership Calls for Unity Amidst Challenges
In their opening remarks, BoT Chairman Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and Acting National Chairman Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman urged members to remain resolute and optimistic. They expressed confidence that the PDP will overcome its current challenges and emerge stronger.
