The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) plunged deeper into crisis on Saturday following the expulsion of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti Governor Ayo Fayose, and 10 other top leaders over alleged anti-party activities.
The decision was taken at the 20th National Convention at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Those expelled include Senator Samuel Anyanwu (National Secretary), Kamaldeen Ajibade (National Legal Adviser), Austin Nwachukwu, Mohammed Abdulrahman (factional chairman), Senators Mao Ohuabunwa and Abraham Amah, George Turner, and Chief Dan Orbih.
The motion for their expulsion was moved by former National Vice Chairman, Chief Olabode George, seconded by Bauchi PDP Chairman Samaila Burga, and adopted by delegates. Umaru Damagum was also confirmed as the party’s substantive National Chairman.
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However, the move divided party governors. Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang dissociated themselves from the expulsions, warning that the action could trigger prolonged instability within the party.
Convention Marred by Court Orders
The PDP’s internal crisis escalated in the weeks leading to the convention, with factions loyal to Wike and Damagum clashing over control of party structures. Former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to halt the convention after being denied a nomination form for the party’s national chairmanship. Justice Peter Lifu ordered the suspension of the convention and barred INEC from monitoring any process excluding Lamido.
Despite this, the Damagum faction proceeded with the convention in Ibadan, citing ignorance of the court order. The conflicting judicial rulings from the Oyo State High Court allowed the convention to continue, further deepening tensions.
Expelled Leaders Reject Decision
Expelled officials immediately condemned the decision. Abraham Amah and George Turner described the convention as illegal, citing ongoing litigation and absence of INEC officials. Enyinnaya Appolos, acting South-South PDP Publicity Secretary, called the gathering “ill-fated,” noting that it violated federal court orders and lacked legal standing.
Some Governors Signal Exit
Governors of Rivers, Osun, and Taraba states—Siminalayi Fubara, Ademola Adeleke, and Cephas Agbu—avoided the convention, signalling potential defections. PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor warned that actions by the Ibadan faction could push these governors to quit, describing the convention as a “nullity” with no INEC oversight.
Party Structures Dissolved in Five States
Apart from Imo and Abia, the PDP also dissolved party structures in Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who moved the motion, said the decision aimed to ratify executives following prior congresses. Makinde insisted the process complied substantially with the Electoral Act 2022, the PDP Constitution, and party guidelines.
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