PDP's Internal Crisis Intensifies

By George .B. Sochi , 06/02/2025

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), once Nigeria’s dominant political force, is currently grappling with a deepening internal crisis that threatens to fracture the party further and weaken its ability to provide robust opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). At the heart of the conflict is a contentious leadership battle for the position of National Secretary, which has exposed long-standing divisions within the party's hierarchy.

The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), the Board of Trustees (BOT), and various PDP governors have been locked in a power struggle over the selection process. This disagreement has not only disrupted the party's cohesion but has also raised serious questions about its readiness for future elections, especially as the 2027 general elections draw closer.

Genesis of the Crisis

The current crisis began following the sudden resignation of the PDP’s National Secretary in late 2024. The position, considered crucial for the party’s internal administration and political strategy, has since become a point of intense rivalry among different factions within the party.

The NEC, BOT, and governors have each proposed different candidates for the role, refusing to reach a consensus on the appointment. This has resulted in heated debates, accusations of favoritism, and allegations of backroom dealings, further eroding trust among key party stakeholders.

A senior party official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the crisis as “a ticking time bomb that could detonate at any moment,” warning that if not resolved swiftly, it could have devastating consequences for the party’s unity and electoral prospects.

The Impact on Party Unity

The leadership tussle has exacerbated existing divisions within the PDP, which has struggled to regain its footing after its defeat in the 2023 general elections. Analysts argue that the lack of cohesion within the party has weakened its ability to function as a formidable opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Prominent party leaders have expressed concerns over the lingering crisis, with some calling for urgent intervention to prevent a total collapse of the party’s internal structure. Former Vice President and PDP stalwart, Atiku Abubakar, recently appealed for calm and urged party members to prioritize the collective interest of the PDP over personal ambitions.

“Leadership disputes are normal in any political party, but they must be resolved quickly and amicably to prevent long-term damage. The PDP cannot afford to allow internal conflicts to distract from its primary responsibility: holding the government accountable and offering Nigerians an alternative vision,” Atiku said in a statement.

A Broader Crisis of Confidences

Observers believe that the current crisis is symptomatic of a broader crisis of confidence within the PDP. Since its loss of the presidency in 2015, the party has faced a series of leadership challenges, defections, and electoral setbacks that have chipped away at its influence.

Political analyst Dr. Ahmed Olusegun noted that the PDP’s inability to resolve internal conflicts has made it increasingly difficult for the party to present a united front. “The PDP is at a critical juncture. It must address its leadership crisis and rebuild its internal structures if it hopes to remain relevant in Nigeria’s political landscape,” he said.

The crisis has also emboldened the APC, which has capitalized on the PDP’s internal woes to consolidate its own power and influence. With the 2027 elections approaching, time is running out for the PDP to put its house in order.

What Lies Ahead for the PDP?

Efforts to resolve the crisis have so far been unsuccessful, with several reconciliation meetings ending in deadlock. The party’s leadership has promised to convene an emergency NEC meeting to address the issue and chart a way forward. However, some party insiders remain skeptical about the outcome, citing entrenched interests and deep-seated rivalries.

For many PDP supporters, the current crisis is a painful reminder of the party’s turbulent history and a stark warning about what lies ahead if urgent steps are not taken to restore unity. Whether the PDP can overcome this latest challenge will depend largely on the willingness of its leaders to set aside personal ambitions for the greater good of the party.

In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on the PDP as it navigates this critical moment in its history. One thing is certain: how the party resolves this crisis will have far-reaching implications, not just for its future but for Nigeria’s broader political landscape.