PDP In Turmoil: Factions Clash Ahead Of 2027 Elections
Internal Conflict Threatens PDP’s 2027 Prospects
THE Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) finds itself at a critical crossroads, with internal crises threatening its ability to compete effectively in the 2027 general elections. Since its National Convention in November, which brought the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) to power, the party has been engulfed in factional battles, legal disputes, and defections that have cast doubt over its organisational coherence.
The Wike-Turaki Rift
From the outset, Governor Nyesom Wike and his allies opposed the November convention, arguing that the process was flawed. The disagreement quickly escalated, resulting in a parallel Caretaker Committee headed by Abdurahman Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu. Each faction claims legitimacy, creating a leadership standoff within the party.
Recent developments have intensified the conflict. An Ibadan High Court granted recognition to the Wike-backed Caretaker Committee, a move the Turaki-led NWC described as unsolicited and “suo motu,” meaning the court acted independently of any formal request. While party organs like the Board of Trustees support the Turaki-led NWC, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reportedly engaged with the Wike-backed committee during official meetings, further complicating the party’s internal hierarchy.
Accusations and Counterclaims
Both factions have launched verbal offensives. Turaki’s spokesperson, Comrade Ini Ememobong, accused the Wike-aligned committee of deliberately weakening the party to pave the way for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to dominate the 2027 elections. Ememobong stated, “These distractions are engineered. Without them, PDP would have offered a strong alternative on all issues by now.”
In response, the Wike-backed committee insists it is protecting the party from internal “marketers” seeking personal gain. National Youth Leader Aboki defended their approach, stating, “We are working for PDP. We are PDP members working for PDP. And in 2027, Nigerians will be surprised.”
Leadership Vacuum and Strategic Uncertainty
Observers note that PDP’s internal power struggle has created a leadership vacuum at a critical time. Governors and other key party figures, wary of the unresolved conflict, have begun exploring alternative political platforms, including defections to APC and other opposition parties. Disagreements over candidate selection, governance structures, and party direction have intensified this uncertainty.
Legal battles continue to complicate matters. Both factions are awaiting further judgements from higher courts, including the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, before definitive actions can be taken. Meanwhile, the party’s inability to negotiate internally or reconcile differences has heightened public perception of disarray.
Outlook for 2027
With elections approaching, the PDP faces an uphill battle. Analysts warn that ongoing infighting may compromise its ability to field a cohesive presidential candidate, organise effectively at the grassroots, or challenge APC’s growing dominance. The party’s public image has also suffered, leaving many voters uncertain about its readiness to govern effectively.
As factions continue their standoff, the central question remains whether the PDP can resolve its disputes in time to mount a credible challenge in 2027 or whether the party will enter the election weakened and fragmented.
