Index to Nigerian Newspapers

S’South Congress Deepens PDP Crisis as NWC, Wike Camp Clash

The Peoples Democratic Party is currently facing a severe internal crisis as factions struggle for control over the party's leadership and regional structure. Tensions have peaked following a dispute over the South-South Zonal Caretaker Committee, with loyalists of former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike rejecting the appointments made by the National Working Committee and questioning the legitimacy of those overseeing party affairs. This internal division is compounded by the repeated postponement of the National Executive Committee meeting—now delayed until May—which leaders claim is necessary due to ongoing litigation regarding the position of the National Secretary. While some officials argue that recent actions were taken to stabilize the party and prevent a leadership vacuum, others, including the National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Dan Orbih, have dismissed these decisions as unconstitutional and the result of personal agendas. As competing factions continue to issue conflicting directives and challenge each other’s authority in court, the party remains deeply fractured, leaving members and stakeholders concerned about the future stability and unity of the organization.

ZAKARIYAU, Abdulrahman | Political parties -- Nigeria -- Internal organization | Punch Newspaper | Monday, March 10, 2025