The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) worsened on Thursday after a faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, vowed to take control of the party’s national headquarters next week, following what it described as official recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Wike-backed group made the declaration shortly after INEC admitted its representatives to the commission’s first quarterly stakeholders’ meeting with political parties in 2026, a move widely interpreted within the PDP as conferring legitimacy on the faction amid the party’s protracted leadership dispute.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the factional National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, said the group would physically assume control of the party secretariat in Abuja on Monday.
“By next Monday, we will take over the PDP headquarters,” Anyanwu said, adding that the faction was determined to enforce what it considers lawful leadership of the opposition party.
The PDP has been mired in internal crisis for months, with rival blocs laying claim to the party’s national leadership and structures, leading to deep divisions among governors, lawmakers and key stakeholders.
The Wike-aligned faction recently announced plans to convene a national convention scheduled for March 28 and 29, 2026, to ratify its leadership and chart a new direction for the party.
However, governors and influential leaders aligned with the opposing camp have rejected the proposed convention, insisting it lacks constitutional backing.
Political observers warn that the latest development could further destabilise Africa’s largest opposition party ahead of key electoral contests, with the threat to occupy the national secretariat raising fears of confrontation and deepening factional battles.
Efforts to reach officials of the rival faction for comments were unsuccessful as of press time, but party insiders said consultations were ongoing to prevent a breakdown of law and order at the party’s headquarters.
The unfolding crisis comes amid growing concerns over the PDP’s ability to present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress, as calls intensify for reconciliation and internal reforms to avert further damage to the party’s electoral fortunes.
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