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Tension is mounting within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as members await the Court of Appeal’s judgment on the ongoing leadership dispute that has split the party into rival factions.
The crisis has divided the party between a National Working Committee (NWC) reportedly backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and a National Caretaker Committee supported by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The appellate court had reserved its judgment last month after hearing arguments from both sides. Party insiders say supporters of the two camps are anxious about the outcome.
A party source told Daily Sun that uncertainty over the ruling has heightened tension among members. “Everyone is waiting for the judgment. Nobody can predict the outcome, so there is a lot of anxiety,” the source said.
How the Crisis Began
The leadership battle intensified after the PDP National Convention held in Ibadan on November 15 and 16, where a Tanimu Turaki-led NWC was elected.
During the convention, the party also announced the expulsion of several prominent figures, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and Umar Bature. In addition, the State Working Committees (SWCs) in six states were dissolved.
However, the Wike faction rejected the convention, describing it as illegitimate. In response, the group established a 13-member National Caretaker Committee headed by Abdulraham Mohammed to manage the party’s affairs pending fresh elections.
The faction also announced the expulsion of several party leaders, including Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, Umar Damagum, Adolphus Wabara, and Chief Olabode George.
Conflicting Court Judgments
Before the convention took place, courts issued conflicting orders.
A Federal High Court in Abuja directed the PDP to halt the convention, while an Oyo State High Court in Ibadan later allowed it to proceed.
After the convention, the courts again delivered contradictory rulings. The Federal High Court in Ibadan nullified the convention’s outcome, whereas the Oyo State High Court upheld its validity.
With the matter now before the Court of Appeal, many party leaders hope the judgment will clarify the leadership structure.
Concerns Over 2027 Elections
Despite expectations that the ruling may resolve the dispute, some party members fear the prolonged crisis could weaken the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Their concern is linked to provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, which require political parties to submit a digital membership register to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at least 21 days before party primaries.
INEC’s timetable indicates that party primaries will hold between April 23 and May 30, meaning the membership register must be submitted by April 2.
Failure to meet this requirement could prevent a party from fielding candidates.
Party Members Express Concern
Former PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, warned that the internal crisis has already caused serious damage to the party.
According to him, some politicians planning to contest in the 2027 elections are already considering alternative platforms.
He said the numerous legal battles have weakened the PDP’s political structure and raised doubts about its chances in the next election.
Similarly, a PDP chieftain from the South-West, who requested anonymity, said aspirants remain uncertain about the party’s future.
The chieftain, who hopes to contest for a National Assembly seat in 2027, explained that although Governor Makinde has encouraged members to campaign under the PDP platform, many fear the legal battle could render their efforts useless if the judgment goes against their faction.
He also pointed to recent developments in Osun and Ekiti states, where the party currently lacks candidates in upcoming governorship elections, describing the situation as troubling.
Rival Factions Preparing Separately
Despite the crisis, both factions are making preparations for the 2027 elections.
The Turaki-led NWC is currently conducting digital membership registration, while the Caretaker Committee backed by Wike is organizing congresses in several states.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Turaki faction, Ini Ememobong, said the party has already begun preparations for candidate nominations and is awaiting the court’s decision.
Meanwhile, Okechukwu Osuoha, a member of the Caretaker Committee, insisted there is no reason for panic. He said the committee has already started its activities and plans to hold a national convention on March 29 and 30.
Osuoha expressed confidence that the Court of Appeal would soon deliver its verdict and provide clarity on the leadership issue.
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