The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a deep internal crisis, as two major figures in the party, former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, are locked in a fierce battle over control of the party’s structure.
This conflict has caused divisions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), threatening to split the PDP into opposing factions.
At the center of the tension is the political rivalry in Rivers State, where Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), seeks to maintain control of the PDP’s political influence. He has clashed with the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over party leadership in the state.
Wike’s push for dominance has sparked resistance, especially among PDP governors, many of whom are backing Fubara. This has escalated into a national issue, as the fight for Rivers State’s control has wider implications for the party’s future.
The internal friction intensified after Senator Iyorchia Ayu was removed as National Chairman of the PDP following a court order. The acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, who is aligned with Wike, approved controversial congresses in Rivers State. This move further fueled the dispute, as many within the party, including PDP governors, voiced strong objections.
In response, Wike issued a warning, threatening to disrupt activities in states where governors were allegedly interfering in Rivers’ affairs. His remarks were condemned by the PDP Governors’ Forum, chaired by Bala Mohammed, who called Wike’s threats “irresponsible.”
Tensions reached new heights after local government elections in Rivers State on October 5, where Wike’s camp suffered a significant defeat. The Action Peoples Party (APP) won 22 out of 23 local government chairmanship seats, reducing Wike’s grip on the region.
The situation worsened when the NWC, led by Damagum, suspended two key party officials—National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN).
These suspensions were linked to their opposition to Wike’s influence and their criticism of Damagum’s leadership. In response, a faction loyal to Ologunagba suspended Damagum and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, accusing them of anti-party activities.
In a dramatic twist, Ologunagba’s group appointed National Treasurer Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as the acting National Chairman, deepening the crisis.
The PDP Board of Trustees, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, has stepped in, calling for peace and urging both sides to resolve their differences. Wabara emphasized that unity is crucial for the party’s future success, especially as it prepares for upcoming elections.
However, the situation remains unresolved, with both factions holding their ground. According to a source within Bala Mohammed’s camp, Wike has allegedly been directing his supporters to remove those standing in the way of his control over the party.
