The internal crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a dramatic turn on Monday in Abuja, as loyalists of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, forcefully took control of the party’s National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, in what appears to be a direct challenge to the authority of the party’s governors and National Working Committee (NWC).
A Sudden Takeover Amid Party Tensions
Reports from the capital revealed that Wike’s loyalists stormed the PDP National Secretariat early Monday morning, effectively seizing control in the absence of the PDP governors and key members of the NWC, who are believed to be sympathetic to the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum.
The move came as a shock to many within the party hierarchy, as the faction loyal to Wike appears to be asserting its dominance and influence, especially after weeks of escalating tension between the former Rivers State governor and the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Damagum’s Camp Sidelined
Sources close to the party disclosed that members of the National Working Committee — led by Umar Damagum, who has been operating with the support of the PDP governors — were nowhere near the secretariat when the Wike-backed group made their move.
The incident has raised concerns about the future of the party’s leadership structure and unity, as it signifies the growing divide between the pro-Wike faction and the mainstream leadership bloc.
Wike’s loyalists reportedly accused the governors and their allies of sidelining certain interests within the party and failing to recognize the FCT Minister’s influence and contributions, especially during the 2023 general elections.
A Renewed Battle for the Soul of the PDP
The takeover marks a new phase in the long-standing battle for control of the PDP — a struggle that has persisted since the party’s defeat in the 2023 presidential election.
Political analysts say the development could signal an impending leadership shake-up, as both camps — the Wike faction and the governors’ bloc — strategize for dominance ahead of upcoming state elections and the 2027 general polls.
Observers also note that the power tussle could deepen internal fractures within the opposition party, undermining its ability to present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in future contests.
Reactions and Possible Outcomes
While the party’s official communication channels remained largely silent as of Monday evening, sources revealed that some governors and senior party leaders are already meeting to discuss possible measures to reclaim the secretariat and restore order.
A senior PDP chieftain described the incident as “an open declaration of war” within the party, warning that if not swiftly managed, the crisis could lead to parallel leadership structures — a scenario that has plagued the PDP in previous years.
Wike’s Influence and Political Calculations
Nyesom Wike, one of the most vocal and influential figures in the PDP, has been at the center of the party’s internal rifts since the lead-up to the 2023 elections. Despite being a member of the PDP, he accepted a ministerial position in the APC-led federal government — a move that sparked controversy and further divided the opposition party.
Analysts believe the latest takeover could be part of Wike’s broader political strategy to assert control over the PDP machinery ahead of future political alignments. His supporters argue that the party needs a more decisive and pragmatic leadership approach, while his critics accuse him of attempting to weaken the PDP from within.
Uncertain Future for Nigeria’s Main Opposition Party
The current crisis adds to a growing list of internal disputes threatening the stability of the PDP. With key national figures now split between rival factions, the task of rebuilding trust and unity within the party appears increasingly difficult.
If unresolved, the conflict could affect the PDP’s preparations for upcoming gubernatorial elections and its 2027 presidential ambitions, further diminishing its status as Nigeria’s leading opposition force.
As of press time, both factions have yet to release an official statement on the next steps, but insiders predict a major showdown in the coming days as efforts to reclaim or retain control of the Wadata Plaza headquarters intensify.
