Fresh tension has engulfed the Peoples Democratic Party as two powerful blocs dig deeper into a battle for control just weeks before the party’s national convention in Ibadan, scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025 – www.naijnaira.com reports.
The rift is between National Chairman Umar Damagum and governors loyal to him on one side, and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike with National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu on the other. Daily Trust confirmed this growing division, with both groups eager to dominate the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
At the center of the crisis are conflicting letters sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission. Damagum backed a postponement of party congresses in Cross River and Plateau, but Anyanwu countered, insisting the congresses must go on. “The earlier letter signed by the national chairman should be ignored,” Anyanwu declared.
Sources revealed the struggle stems from fears over control of strategic states, particularly Cross River, where Wike’s loyalists had already gained ground. “There’s no way INEC will recognize two opposing instructions until the party resolves this,” one insider explained.
Party spokesman Debo Ologunagba assured that the dispute will be resolved soon, while NEC member Timothy Osadolor maintained that the convention date remains intact.
Analysts believe Wike is pressing hard for concessions, including recognition of his ally Dan Orbih as South-South chairman and fresh congresses in Anambra and the South-East. Critics argue this strategy is designed to cement influence at the convention.
Meanwhile, the organizing committee has extended deadlines for nomination forms and screening of aspirants, signaling that the crisis has already slowed down preparations for the Ibadan gathering.
Article updated 10 hours ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
