PDP In Turmoil: Secretariat Shut, Leadership Battles Deepen Ahead Of 2027 Elections

By NJORIGE LYNUS

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grappling with a severe internal crisis, marked by the closure of its national secretariat at Wadata Plaza, a fate the party also faced eight years ago. The latest shutdown followed a violent takeover by suspected political thugs, assisted by police from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), after the suspension of Senator Samuel Anyanwu and three other top officials for alleged anti-party activities.

The suspended officers were linked to a court case that halted the PDP’s 15 November National Convention in Ibadan. The suit, filed by state chapter officials aligned with Anyanwu, reflects ongoing factional disputes dating back to the 2022 primaries, when Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and the G-5 governors opposed the party’s presidential candidate.

Internal disunity has resulted in mass defections, including four governors to the ruling APC, and significant losses in the South-East and South-South. The crisis escalated further when the Wike faction dissolved the Board of Trustees (BoT), led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, citing loss of credibility, and inaugurated a new BoT.

Despite the turmoil, party stalwarts like Dr. Eddy Olafeso remain optimistic, insisting the PDP is regrouping ahead of the 2027 elections. The party plans to hold its convention, reconcile factions, and restore its influence, aiming to recover from years of indiscipline, defections, and leadership conflicts.

The closure of the secretariat and ongoing legal battles underscore the PDP’s struggle to maintain unity and credibility as it navigates a critical pre-election period.