The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s main opposition party, is grappling with a deepening internal rift as factions loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde clash ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for late March.
The Wike-backed faction insists the convention will proceed as planned in Abuja, citing formal notification to the Independent National Electoral Commission. Acting National Chairman Mohammed Abdulrahman and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu have pledged to deliver an inclusive gathering despite ongoing litigation.
Makinde’s camp, however, has challenged the legitimacy of the planned convention, arguing that recent court rulings invalidate decisions taken by Wike’s allies. They maintain that the process must be halted until legal disputes are resolved.
Public reactions reflect the tension. Supporters of Wike argue that the convention is essential to stabilize the party and prepare for future elections. “Delays only weaken the PDP further; the leadership must move forward,” one party member said.
Makinde’s supporters counter that rushing into a convention risks deepening divisions. “Without legal clarity, any decisions made will be contested and could fracture the party even more,” a critic warned.
Observers note that the dispute underscores broader challenges facing Nigeria’s opposition, which has struggled to present a united front against the ruling party. Analysts suggest that the outcome of the March convention could determine whether the PDP emerges stronger or further fragmented.
