PDP Power Struggle Intensifies Ahead of Crucial NEC Meeting

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is gearing up for a pivotal National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting set for April 17 and 18, amidst ongoing internal battles for control of the party’s structure.

Key power blocs, including those aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, are vying for supremacy. This setting is ripe for a showdown, as both factions strive to assert their influence within the party.

The pro-Wike camp recently obtained a court injunction barring former national chairman and Atiku ally, Prince Uche Secondus, from participating in the NEC meeting or any other PDP event pending the outcome of the ongoing legal suit. The Atiku camp is reportedly taking steps to vacate the injunction, though it remains unclear whether the party’s leadership has been served.

When asked for comment, National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba said he could provide more information next week when the party returns from holidays. In any case, the plaintiff would be better positioned to confirm whether the party had been officially served.

Both Atiku and Wike’s camps are keenly focused on the issues surrounding the position of national chairman and the extension granted to some ward, local government, and state caretaker committees. The resolution of these matters is crucial for their continued influence within the party.

Investigations in Abuja revealed that several first-term governors are displeased with attempts by their predecessors to retain or wrest control of the party structure in their respective states.

A senior NEC member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the meeting will address several lingering issues since the 2023 election. These include concerns about the recent appointment of caretaker committees by the National Working Committee without consulting affected governors.

Rivers State governor Siminalayi Fubara’s case has already received public attention, while other governors are waiting for the NEC meeting to address their grievances.

Another party insider warned of potential disruptions from fifth columnists who may use litigation to impede progress. Speculation suggests that individuals from the South East may challenge the party’s decision to retain Sen. Sam Anyanwu as national secretary.

Despite the electoral losses of the Wike-led Group of Five (G-5) governors in 2023, Wike continues to wield considerable influence among party loyalists. His role in the election of several party governors and National Assembly members in the South South, South East, and parts of the North has cemented his status within the party.

Supporters of Atiku argue that since Iyiorchia Ayu’s tenure was cut short, the party should adhere to tradition and appoint a replacement from Ayu’s region or state. They fear that allowing Acting National Chairman Amb. Illiya Umar Damagum to remain in the role could exacerbate internal divisions.

An Atiku associate stated that Wike’s involvement in the 2023 defeat is well-documented and that retaining Damagum would not serve the party’s interests. “We need to revisit 2023, identify culprits, apportion blame, and hold those accountable because no group should overshadow the party,” he said.

Potential replacements for Ayu from his zone include former Benue State governor Gabriel Suswam, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, also from Benue, and former minister Humphrey Aba from Kogi State.