Wike has threatened to derail PDP National Convention over location dispute.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that tensions are rising within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, threatens to disrupt the party’s national convention scheduled for November 15-16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Sources suggest that Wike’s opposition stems from lingering disputes with his former ally, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and other unresolved internal party disagreements.
Wike Raises Concerns Over Zonal Representation
The PDP has recently emerged from a period of internal turmoil, which saw notable defections, including former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, his running mate Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, who joined rival parties.
At its 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on July 24, the party confirmed that its elective convention would be held in Ibadan, during which 19 new members are expected to be elected to the National Working Committee (NWC).
However, Wike has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the South-South Caretaker Committee recently constituted by the NWC, and with the retention of Ali Odefa as National Vice Chairman (South East).
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Wike warned that ignoring the zonal congress that produced Dan Orbih as National Vice Chairman (South-South) could trigger a fresh crisis within the PDP.
“Our congress was held in Calabar, and there’s nothing anybody can tell us. Chief Dan Orbih emerged as the National Vice Chairman. If they don’t agree, that’s another round of crisis,” Wike said.
He further criticized the handling of South-East representation, noting that Ali Odefa had been sacked by a competent court.
“These are the things I tell people. What I don’t like is impunity. I will not condone it. I will fight it except they correct it,” Wike added.
Warning of Potential Crisis
The former Rivers State governor stressed that the convention could face disruptions if these internal disputes are not resolved.
“They said that they are going for their convention in November. I am not part of it until they have corrected it. If the matter is not resolved, there will be a crisis,” he said, dismissing rumors of a parallel convention.
Wike also pledged to continue fighting perceived injustices within the party, asserting his legal right to challenge any unfair processes.
PDP Responds to Wike
Reacting to Wike’s stance, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba reaffirmed that all NEC members were duly informed and insisted that the convention would proceed as planned in Ibadan.
“The NEC, which is the second-highest decision-making body of this party, has fixed the venue for the national convention. Like I referenced earlier, all arrangements and committees are working seamlessly towards a successful national convention at Ibadan,” Ologunagba said.
He emphasized that the party had followed proper procedures, including notifying Wike personally and publishing notices in national newspapers.
“If there are actions inconsistent with the constitution, the necessary steps will kick in. PDP is a party of process, rule, and law,” Ologunagba added.
As the November convention approaches, Wike’s opposition underscores deepening internal divisions within the PDP, while party officials insist on adhering to constitutional procedures to ensure a smooth convention.