Abuja Boils as PDP Crisis Deepens: Factions Clash, Emergency Meetings Hold, Future of Party Hangs in the Balance
The lingering crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) erupted into fresh chaos today as warring factions clashed in the Federal Capital Territory, forcing the party’s national leadership to convene a series of emergency meetings in a bid to contain what many insiders now describe as the “most explosive internal conflict” since the party’s formation.
The tension, which had been simmering beneath the surface since the controversial Ibadan National Convention, spilled into the open at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, where supporters of the suspended and expelled chieftains stormed the premises, demanding an immediate reversal of the decisions taken by the convention.
Sources disclosed that the faction loyal to former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, arrived in large numbers, chanting solidarity songs and accusing the current National Working Committee (NWC) of hijacking the party. They insisted that the expulsion of Wike, Ayo Fayose, Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade and others was “illegal, vindictive, and politically motivated.”
Security operatives were quickly deployed to prevent further escalation as both factions attempted to take control of the secretariat. A minor scuffle broke out when supporters of the NWC attempted to stop the pro-Wike group from entering the main building.
Meanwhile, the NWC, led by the Acting National Chairman, reportedly held a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders, including former governors, ex-ministers, and members of the Board of Trustees (BoT). Discussions reportedly centered on the party’s legal standing following multiple court judgments, reconciliation options, and the possibility of initiating a fresh convention to restore calm.
A senior PDP official who spoke under anonymity said the situation is “delicate and fluid,” noting that the party must act swiftly to prevent a total collapse of its national structure.
“We are facing a defining moment. The divisions are real, and resolving them will require honesty, sacrifice, and political will. If not properly handled, this crisis could render the PDP ineffective ahead of the 2027 elections,” the source said.
Outside the secretariat, anxious party members and journalists gathered in anticipation of an official statement. However, as of press time, no formal briefing had been issued, fueling further speculation about deepening fractures within the opposition party.
Political analysts say today's events underscore a widening trust deficit within the PDP, one that could reshape its future and determine whether it remains a strong national opposition force or splinters under the weight of internal battles.
The crisis, which began with disagreements over party discipline, leadership legitimacy, and the fallout from recent expulsions, now threatens to push the PDP to the brink unless swift and decisive reconciliation efforts are undertaken.
More updates are expected as developments unfold.