PDP Crisis Deepens as Rival Factions Battle for Control of Secretariat

Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has entered a fresh phase of internal conflict following the takeover of its national secretariat in Abuja by a faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The development, which occurred after the Nigeria Police Force reopened the previously sealed offices, has triggered strong reactions from a rival faction led by Kabiru Taminu Turaki, further deepening divisions within the party.

The crisis, which has lingered for months, stems from leadership disputes within the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC). While the Wike-aligned camp insists that its actions are backed by a valid court ruling, the opposing faction has alleged bias and institutional interference, raising concerns about the neutrality of national institutions and the future cohesion of the PDP.

Police Reopen PDP Secretariat Amid Legal Backing

The latest development follows a March 9 ruling by the Court of Appeal, which favoured the faction aligned with Wike and invalidated a previous convention held in Ibadan. Acting on this legal basis, the police unsealed the PDP’s national secretariat at Wadata Plaza and Legacy House in Abuja, restoring access to the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led NWC.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, the faction commended the Nigeria Police Force for what it described as professionalism and adherence to due process. The group stated that the reopening of the offices reflected respect for constitutional order and reaffirmed the legitimacy of its leadership.

The faction also warned against any attempts to disrupt activities at the secretariat, urging party members to remain peaceful and law-abiding. It expressed optimism that the crisis had been resolved and called on aggrieved stakeholders to unite in the interest of the party’s stability.

Turaki Camp Alleges Bias, Rejects Legitimacy

However, the Turaki-led faction has strongly rejected the takeover, arguing that the court order cited by the opposing camp is under appeal and therefore not final. The faction’s spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, criticised the action of the police, describing it as a partisan use of state institutions.

Ememobong maintained that both factions have competing claims to the secretariat and that enforcing a contested ruling undermines due process. He accused national institutions, including the judiciary and the police, of acting in a manner that suggests political bias, thereby eroding public confidence.

Despite the tensions, the faction reiterated its commitment to lawful conduct and urged its supporters to remain peaceful. It also expressed hope that the judiciary would ultimately resolve the dispute fairly, restoring balance within the party.

Deepening Crisis Raises Concerns for Opposition Unity

The ongoing dispute highlights deeper fractures within the PDP, with key political figures such as Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed backing the Turaki-led faction. The clash between influential stakeholders has raised concerns about the party’s ability to present a united front ahead of future political contests.

While the Wike-aligned camp has expressed confidence in its legal standing and leadership, the opposing faction continues to frame the situation as a broader struggle against alleged institutional bias and political interference. These competing narratives have intensified uncertainty within the party’s rank and file.

Observers note that unless a definitive legal and political resolution is reached, the crisis could weaken the PDP’s position as Nigeria’s leading opposition party. For now, both factions appear entrenched, with reconciliation efforts yet to yield meaningful results.