2027 polls: PDP govs reject Wike bloc’s consensus chair plan

The internal crisis within the PDP worsened after governors in the party distanced themselves from a consensus arrangement put forward by the Wike-aligned group for key national offices. The dispute centres on plans for the party’s leadership ahead of its national convention scheduled for late March.

The Wike-backed faction had moved to settle leadership positions through consensus across the six geopolitical zones. Under the arrangement, Samuel Anyanwu was picked for National Secretary, while Abdulrahman Mohammed was chosen for National Chairman. Sources within the group said zonal leaders met and agreed on candidates for several positions in order to avoid internal contests.

However, governors loyal to another bloc of the party rejected the process. They argued that the arrangement did not follow due procedure and said they would seek legal options to challenge it. Members of this camp also insisted that the planned convention based on the consensus list was flawed.

The disagreement follows months of division within the PDP, which split into two major factions after a controversial convention held in Ibadan in November. That exercise produced a National Working Committee led by Tanimu Turaki. The outcome was later nullified by the Court of Appeal, which ruled that the process violated electoral and party rules.

In response to the earlier crisis, the Wike camp had set up a caretaker committee to oversee party affairs and prepare for a new convention. Despite attempts at reconciliation between both sides, recent talks broke down after disagreements over how to conduct the upcoming convention and who should participate.

Sources close to the governors said they were open to dialogue but rejected being asked to buy forms and contest under a process they consider invalid. They maintained that the party constitution and national laws would guide their next steps.

On the other hand, members of the Wike faction defended consensus as a way to reduce tension, save time, and avoid further division. They said the approach had the backing of party leaders and stakeholders across regions.

Meanwhile, some senior party figures warned that holding another factional convention could worsen the crisis and weaken the party ahead of future elections. They urged both sides to return to negotiations and agree on a unified leadership structure.

Calls for peace also came from party elders who advised members to end internal disputes and focus on rebuilding the party. They noted that unity would be necessary for the PDP to remain competitive in the 2027 general elections.

Despite these appeals, the disagreement over leadership selection and the conduct of the convention shows that the party remains divided, with both camps standing firm on their positions.