The Traffic

PDP in Turmoil: Wike Allies and NEC on Collision Course Over Acting Chairman Damagum

By Achimi muktar 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is once again embroiled in internal conflict, with the party's National Executive Council (NEC) preparing for a critical showdown against a faction led by former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike. At the heart of the crisis lies the controversial tenure of the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, whose leadership has polarized the party.

Damagum’s Tenure Sparks Division

Since stepping in after the court-ordered removal of Senator Iyorchia Ayu, Damagum’s leadership has been anything but smooth. While he enjoys the backing of power players such as Wike, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and three other governors, a growing faction within the party is demanding his resignation, citing a need for fresh leadership.

Party insiders revealed that Damagum's supporters have consolidated power through strategic moves, including dominating recent ward and state congresses. This has left critics accusing the acting chairman of plotting to extend his influence beyond the November 2025 elective convention.

Wike’s Influence Expands

Wike’s faction, with the support of Makinde, Governors Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba), has tightened its grip on the PDP's grassroots structures. Despite fierce opposition, Wike has also maintained control of the Rivers State chapter, even clashing with his successor, Governor Sim Fubara.

A PDP chieftain disclosed that Wike’s faction has its sights set on the 2027 presidential elections, crafting strategies to influence the party’s direction. “They’re playing a long game,” the source noted, adding that the faction’s control over the NEC has made it nearly impossible for other stakeholders to intervene.

NEC Pushes Back

Opposing forces within the party are determined to unseat Damagum. Former PDP National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan emphasized that North-Central stakeholders are ready to nominate a replacement. “Fairness must prevail,” Ologbondiyan said, accusing the Wike camp of destabilizing the party.

Senator Umar Ibrahim-Tsauri also criticized the disregard for the PDP’s constitution. “We are facing this crisis because rules have been ignored,” he lamented, warning that the party’s survival is at stake.

Reconciliation Efforts Falter

Efforts to mediate the crisis have faced significant challenges. A 25-member reconciliation committee led by former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola has been hampered by funding issues and poor participation from key stakeholders. The panel, which has only managed to visit the South-West, appears stalled, with no clear timeline for resuming its activities.

What’s Next for the PDP?

As the November 28 NEC meeting remains indefinitely postponed, the battle lines are drawn. With Wike’s allies firmly in control and opposing forces rallying for change, the PDP finds itself at a crossroads. Party stalwarts warn that failure to resolve these disputes could leave the party in disarray ahead of the 2027 elections.

The question remains: Can the PDP navigate these turbulent waters and reclaim its footing, or will internal divisions spell the end for Nigeria’s once-dominant opposition party?