PDP Power Struggle Deepens: Court Cases, Wike’s Influence and Forgery Allegations Throw Convention Into Crisis
In a fresh twist to Nigeria’s political landscape, Akahi News reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is engulfed in a worsening internal conflict that threatens to derail its forthcoming National Convention slated for Ibadan, Oyo State. With only weeks to the event, court battles, allegations of forgery, and the growing influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have cast a long shadow over the opposition party’s stability and future.
Legal Battles and Forgery Allegations Rock PDP
Tensions within the PDP have intensified following multiple lawsuits filed by aggrieved members seeking to halt the planned convention. According to reports monitored by Akahi News, the disputes centre around claims that documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were forged. Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP National Secretary, alleged that his signature was falsified on key documents — a claim that has been fiercely challenged by former National Legal Adviser, Mr Jacob Mark, who insists the burden of proof rests on Anyanwu.
Speaking in a televised interview, Mark described the forgery claim as “criminal” and warned that such internal sabotage could destroy the party from within. He further accused some leaders of plotting to frustrate the convention in a bid to weaken the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike’s Grip Tightens as Factions Clash
As gathered by Akahi News, the ongoing rift has also exposed deep cracks between camps loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum. Party insiders revealed that Wike’s political network remains the most dominant within the PDP, with many accusing him of manipulating internal structures to maintain control ahead of the convention.
One insider was quoted as saying: “Wike is the factor no one can ignore. He has influence, money, and access. Even those who criticise him in private dare not challenge him publicly.”
However, Damagum’s leadership has been described as “weak and reactive,” with party members alleging that his decisions are constantly being influenced by external political forces.
State Chapters in Disarray
Investigations by Akahi News show that several state chapters of the PDP are battling internal divisions, especially in the North-West, North-Central, and parts of the South-South regions. Parallel executive lists, loyalty conflicts, and factional leadership struggles have left many states unable to coordinate effectively for the upcoming convention.
A senior party official warned that the ongoing disunity could invalidate delegate lists and spark post-convention litigations. “Without unity at the state level, delegate selection becomes questionable. That’s how court cases begin,” he said.
Governors, Judiciary and Fears of Defection
PDP governors, once regarded as the stabilising force of the party, are reportedly struggling to maintain control amid shifting loyalties and growing fears of defection. Sources told Akahi News that some governors are quietly negotiating with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), heightening anxiety over the party’s survival beyond the convention.
Mark also expressed dismay at what he described as the “collapse of institutional integrity” in Nigeria’s democracy, accusing the judiciary of allowing political impunity to thrive. “Our institutions are being thrown to the dogs. The courts appear helpless as politicians defect freely without consequences,” he lamented.
Can the PDP Survive the Storm?
With the convention just weeks away, analysts believe the PDP’s crisis reflects a battle of personal ambitions rather than ideological differences. Many party stalwarts are pessimistic about the outcome, warning that another disputed convention could mark the beginning of the end for the once-dominant political force.
As one northern leader told Akahi News: “The question is not whether the convention will hold, but whether it will heal or worsen the PDP’s wounds. If it produces more bitterness and court cases, then the ruling party will have no real opposition in 2027.”
Despite the turmoil, some insiders remain hopeful that transparent leadership selection could redeem the party’s image. But with Wike’s grip tightening, court cases looming, and factional distrust at its peak, the PDP stands on the edge of its most defining moment yet.
Thanks.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
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