A report has indicated that the governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde and other governors are regrouping to remobilise support and challenge the Nyesom Wike-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of its national convention.
Despite preparations for its National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, the PDP remains enmeshed in internal wrangling over control of structures, zonal leadership, and convention arrangements.
Wike’s supporters have accused the Damagum-led leadership of bias and incompetence, citing unresolved disputes in the South-South zone and alleged disregard for micro-zoning principles.
Tensions escalated on Friday when the Federal High Court in Abuja granted an interim injunction restraining the party from holding its convention pending compliance with its constitution and the Electoral Act.
On Saturday, the Damagum-led NWC announced the suspension of National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN); Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha; and National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, for alleged anti-party activities.
In a swift response, the rival faction led by Anyanwu counter-suspended Damagum, National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja, and others for alleged financial misconduct and incompetence.
However, sources close to Governor Makinde told Punch that Oyo bloc and allied governors are meeting to strategise on how to overturn the court injunction and reclaim control of the party’s direction.
A source said, “We are not folding our hands. We have the majority, and discussions are ongoing on how to appeal the judgment and keep preparations for the convention alive.”
Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, also condemned the court ruling halting the PDP convention, describing it as “a calculated move to weaken the opposition and weaponise the judiciary.”
He alleged that “both external pressures and internal sabotage are being deployed to stifle the PDP and entrench a one-party regime,” but assured that “true democrats will resist attempts to destroy multiparty democracy in Nigeria.”
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