PDP Leadership Rift Deepens as Wike Camp Rejects Turaki Bloc, Insists on Convention

The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified, with the faction aligned to Nyesom Wike declaring the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) invalid and reaffirming plans to proceed with the party’s national convention.

The dispute underscores a broader struggle for control of the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 elections.

In comments on Friday, a senior figure within the Wike camp said the Turaki-led bloc no longer exists in the eyes of the law.

“That is their business… Do not forget the fact that the Turaki group no longer exists,” the source said.

The camp cited rulings by the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, which it said nullified the rival convention and barred the group from presenting itself as the party’s NWC.

“Both the Federal High Court in Ibadan and the Court of Appeal have set aside that convention… and declared it unlawful,” the source noted.

Based on this, the faction maintained that preparations for the upcoming convention are legitimate and progressing as planned, with the National Executive Committee (NEC) duly notified.

While maintaining a hardline position, the camp signalled willingness for reconciliation, stating that the door remains open for the rival faction to participate.

“We are open to dialogue and reconciliation… The convention is for the PDP. The PDP is one,” the source said.

He also stressed that the judiciary has settled the issue of leadership, insisting that the National Caretaker Committee remains the party’s authentic authority.

“Democracy must thrive on the rule of law,” he added, while questioning the legality of meetings being held by the opposing bloc.

Despite the ongoing tensions, the Wike-aligned camp said it is moving forward with the convention scheduled for the 29th and 30th.

“As far as we are concerned, the convention will hold… we have given them an olive branch,” the source said.

Jungudo, spokesman of the committee, added that a formal press briefing would be held to further clarify the camp’s position.

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