The PDP’s internal crisis is a sobering reflection of the destructive potential of ego in politics.We have seen this movie before, and it never ends well. The Labour Party’s crisis in 2023, which saw its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, clash with the party’s chairman, Julius Abure, over the party’s direction and leadership, is a classic example. This infighting ultimately led to a split in the party, with both factions claiming to be the legitimate leadership.
The APC, Nigeria’s ruling party, has also not been immune to this, having witnessed a similar crisis in 2018, which saw the party’s national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, at odds with several state governors. These internal squabbles have often been fueled by personal egos and a desire for power, rather than a genuine concern for the party’s well-being or the welfare of Nigerians. The sad truth is that ego has killed the dreams of many political parties, especially those in the opposition. When individuals prioritize their own ambitions over the collective good, the party suffers.
We have seen this play out in the Alliance for Democracy (AD), which was once a major opposition party, but imploded due to internal squabbles and ego clashes. The same fate befell the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), which merged with other parties to form the APC, but not before its leaders, including Bisi Akande and Kayode Fayemi, had engaged in a bitter power struggle. The PDP’s current crisis, which has seen its leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Nyesom Wike, at odds over the party’s direction and leadership, is just the latest example of this phenomenon. It’s a crisis that has been brewing for years, and it’s not clear if the party can recover from it.
The PDP’s crisis is not just about personalities or power struggles; it’s about the party’s very soul. Will it continue to be driven by the whims and egos of its leaders, or will it find a way to put the collective good above individual ambitions? The answer to this question will determine the party’s future, and indeed, the future of Nigeria’s opposition. As we watch the PDP’s descent into chaos, we are reminded of the words of a wise politician, who once said, “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” The PDP needs to find a way to put its house in order, before it’s too late.
Sule Lamido and Tanimu Turaki SAN are both contenders for the position of National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Lamido, a former governor of Jigawa State, has been seeking to purchase the chairmanship nomination form but has been unable to do so. Turaki, on the other hand, has submitted his expression of interest and nomination forms, and is being touted as a consensus candidate by majority stakeholders of the party.
The emergence of Lamido as a contender has deepened the party’s crisis, with some leaders in the North West backing his candidacy. They argue that Lamido’s experience and leadership would be vital in rebuilding the party. Turaki’s supporters, however, claim that he is the most flexible and amenable of the three aspirants, making him a better fit for the role. The party’s governors have announced Turaki as the consensus candidate, but Lamido’s camp is pushing back, threatening court action if necessary.
The dispute between Lamido and Turaki reflects the party’s internal power struggles and ideological divisions. Lamido has been critical of the party’s leadership and has accused some members of being more interested in personal gain than in serving the party. Turaki, on the other hand, is seen as a more moderate figure who can bring stability to the party. The outcome of the chairmanship election, scheduled for November 15-16, will depend on which candidate can garner the most support from party delegates.
The PDP crisis is a complex issue with multiple factors at play. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s frequent defections and actions have been blamed for the party’s woes, with some arguing that his moves have dampened stakeholder support. However, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State suggests that the crisis is not solely about Atiku, but rather a collective ego clash among party members, driven by personal interests and power struggles.
Minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike’s role in the crisis is also significant, with some accusing him of acting as a double agent, with one leg in APC and the other in PDP. Wike has been vocal about his concerns regarding lack of inclusion ahead of the PDP Ibadan 2025 convention, and has transferred his aggression to the PDP governors. This has led to speculation about his true loyalties and whether he is working to undermine the party from within.
The PDP’s internal squabbles have led to several high-profile defections, including some members leaving for the ADC. This has further weakened the party’s position and raised questions about its ability to recover. With the 2027 elections looming, the PDP needs to find a way to resolve its internal conflicts and present a united front if it hopes to remain a viable opposition party.
Wike’s sacrifices towards the PDP’s survival after its defeat in 2015 are still fresh in the minds of Nigerians. He stood tall, facing numerous battles to keep the party alive, even when many other prominent members defected to the APC. Wike’s unwavering commitment to the PDP during this trying period is a testament to his dedication to the party’s ideals and his desire to see it thrive. His efforts, along with those of other stakeholders like Sule Lamido, helped to ensure the party’s continued relevance in Nigerian politics.
Sule Lamido, an influential member of the PDP’s founding fathers, stood by the party during its darkest hours, refusing to defect to the APC. His loyalty and commitment to the party’s ideals are qualities that should be emulated by other members. However, Senator Shehu Sani, a vocal critic of the PDP, expressed shock and dismay that the party refused to sell a nomination form to Lamido. This development raises questions about the party’s commitment to inclusivity and healing, especially considering Lamido’s significant contributions to the party’s growth and development.
The PDP’s refusal to sell a nomination form to Lamido is a clear indication that the party is not interested in healing or reconciliation. Despite Lamido’s efforts to reach out to the party’s leadership, his overtures were rebuffed, and he was effectively shut out of the party’s processes. This is not the kind of behavior that inspires confidence in the party’s ability to govern or lead. Rather, it suggests that the PDP is more interested in perpetuating its own internal power struggles than in building a cohesive and inclusive movement.
To move forward, the PDP needs to hold an emergency meeting with its National Executive Committee (NEC) to address the issues surrounding the chairmanship nomination form and the convention. This meeting will provide an opportunity for party leaders to discuss and resolve their differences, ensuring a smooth transition. Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State emphasizes the need for party members to put aside their personal interests and work towards a common goal. By doing so, the PDP can begin to rebuild its image and regain its position as a major player in Nigerian politics.
Ensuring transparency and fairness is crucial in the convention process. The PDP should guarantee that all aspirants have equal access to the nomination form and the convention process. This will help to prevent any perceptions of bias or manipulation, which could further exacerbate the party’s crisis. The party’s acting National Chairman, Iliya Damagum, has been accused of exacerbating tensions, but it’s not too late to rectify the situation. By being transparent and fair, the PDP can start to rebuild trust among its members and stakeholders.
Respecting the party’s constitution is also essential in resolving the crisis. The PDP should adhere to its own rules and procedures, avoiding any actions that could be perceived as undemocratic or unfair. This will help to prevent further defections and ensure that the party’s members feel included and represented. Nyesom Wike, a prominent PDP figure, has set conditions to resolve the crisis, including recognizing Chief Dan Orbih as the legitimate National Vice Chairman for the South-South region. By respecting the party’s constitution, the PDP can start to heal its internal wounds.
Ultimately, the PDP’s future hangs in the balance as it grapples with these challenges and tries to rebuild its image ahead of the 2027 elections. The party needs to engage in constructive dialogue and find a way to resolve its internal conflicts. Governor Lawal dismisses the notion that the crisis is solely due to Atiku Abubakar’s frequent defections, stating that it’s more complex. By addressing the root causes of the crisis and working together, the PDP can emerge stronger and more united than ever before. This will require a collective effort from party members, but the reward will be worth it a revitalized PDP that can effectively challenge the ruling party and provide a viable alternative for Nigerian voters.
Many Nigerians are skeptical about PDP’s ability to serve as a effective opposition, let alone heal the nation, when it cannot even heal its own internal divisions. This sentiment is echoed by political analysts, who question whether the party can truly move forward without resolving its own leadership crisis. The party’s inability to find common ground among its members raises concerns about its ability to present a united front against the ruling party.
Sule Lamido’s experience and qualities make him a unique figure in Nigerian politics, and many believe he would be an ideal candidate to lead the PDP. However, with him no longer in contention for the national chairman position, the party is left with candidates who may not possess the same level of gravitas or vision to restore its lost glory. This has led to concerns about the party’s future and its ability to regain its former status as a major player in Nigerian politics.
PDP governors need to act fast to save their party from further decline. With only a few governors left and rumors of more defections, they must urgently convene the National Working Committee to ensure a transparent process at the Ibadan convention. This will help prevent brewing court cases that could consume the party’s resources and reputation.
The governors, as leaders of the party, must put aside their differences and work towards a common goal – rebuilding the PDP. They should prioritize inclusivity, ensuring all stakeholders have a voice in the decision-making process. This will help restore trust and unity within the party, enabling it to effectively challenge the ruling APC in the 2027 elections.
The crisis is fueled by ego and personal interests, with individuals prioritizing their own ambitions over the party’s well-being. This has led to a breakdown in communication and trust among party members. The PDP’s inability to resolve these internal conflicts has raised concerns about its ability to present a united front. The current National Working Committee is struggling to address these issues, and some argue that the party’s symbol is no longer enough to provide protection for its members. The PDP needs to put aside its differences and work towards a common goal.
Ego is at the root of the PDP’s crisis, with individuals refusing to compromise and put the party’s interests first. This has led to a toxic environment, with party members engaging in mudslinging and personal attacks. To move forward, the PDP must learn to put ego aside and prioritize the collective good.
The PDP’s future hangs in the balance, and it needs to resolve its internal conflicts to remain a viable opposition party. By doing away with ego and work towards a common goal, the party can rebuild trust and present a united front. This requires compromise, communication, and a willingness to put the party’s interests above personal ambitions. Only then can the PDP regain its former glory .
Danaudi, Writes from Bauchi via danaudicomrade@gmail.com
