ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike on Monday challenged the faction of the Peoples Democratic Party loyal to former minister Taminu Turaki to prove its authority by visiting the party’s National Secretariat.
Speaking at the 108th National Executive Committee meeting of the Turaki‑aligned faction in Abuja, Wike said the group’s claim of control would only be credible if it could physically assert its presence at the headquarters. His remarks underscored the deepening divisions within the PDP, which has faced internal disputes over leadership and legitimacy since losing power nationally in 2015.
The PDP has long been plagued by factional struggles. In 2017, rival groups clashed over control of the party’s structures, leading to a Supreme Court ruling that recognized Ahmed Makarfi’s leadership. More recently, disputes over zoning and candidate selection have fueled further fragmentation.
Reactions to Wike’s comments were mixed. Supporters of the Turaki faction said the challenge was unnecessary and provocative, while Wike’s allies argued it was a test of legitimacy that the faction must face. Political analysts noted that the confrontation reflects broader instability within Nigeria’s opposition, warning that continued infighting could weaken the PDP’s ability to mount a credible challenge in future elections.
Observers say the outcome of the factional dispute will be critical for the party’s cohesion ahead of upcoming political contests, with Wike’s remarks likely to intensify pressure on rival leaders to demonstrate their influence.
