As the Peoples Democratic Party struggles to contain its internal crisis, party stakeholders have outlined stringent conditions for reconciliation, revealing deep divisions that threaten its cohesion ahead of future elections. Consultations are ongoing, but insiders admit the process remains fragile and complex.
Members of rival factions within the National Working Committee confirmed that talks are still at an early stage. Among the proposals under consideration are the convening of a National Executive Committee meeting or the organisation of another national convention to resolve leadership disputes.
The crisis centres on conflicting claims to party leadership following the Ibadan convention, where Tanimu Turaki and his team were elected. PDP governors have endorsed the outcome, but dissenting voices, led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his allies, continue to challenge its legitimacy.
Wike’s camp insists that Abdulrahman Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu remain the acting National Chairman and Secretary, a stance that has kept the party locked in internal paralysis.
Beyond leadership questions, reconciliation talks reportedly include demands for public apologies, restructuring of party organs and guarantees against future unilateral actions. These conditions reflect accumulated grievances that go beyond the immediate leadership dispute.
Party elders fear prolonged disunity could weaken the PDP’s opposition role and erode public confidence. Several have called for compromise, warning that failure to reconcile may push more members toward rival parties.
Whether the PDP can bridge its internal divides will determine not just its organizational survival, but its relevance in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
