The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a serious warning to some of its prominent members, including Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over their public endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
The party has described these endorsements as clear violations of its constitution, labeling them “anti-party activities.”
Party Members Under Scrutiny
In an official statement released on Friday, August 8, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, stated that the National Working Committee (NWC) has reviewed what it called “persistent public media outbursts” by certain party members who have openly declared support for President Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Key figures named include:
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT and former Governor of Rivers State
Ademola Adeleke, Governor of Osun State
Samuel Ortom, former Governor of Benue State
These individuals, despite remaining in the PDP, have aligned themselves with the APC-led administration, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the party’s leadership.
Background and Political Tensions
Wike and Ortom had backed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, largely due to unresolved grievances with the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the party’s leadership over the perceived marginalization of the southern bloc.
Their continued support has extended into the upcoming electoral cycle, with Wike recently vowing to lead President Tinubu’s campaign in Rivers State for the 2027 election. Similarly, Ortom has publicly called for Tinubu’s re-election to complete an eight-year tenure.
Governor Adeleke, while reaffirming his commitment to the PDP, has also expressed support for Tinubu’s second-term bid. Reports suggest his endorsement may be part of a broader political strategy to secure a second term in Osun State’s 2026 gubernatorial race through an alliance with the President.
PDP Reiterates Position on Party Loyalty
The PDP emphasized that such endorsements constitute a “gross violation of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017),” and warned that the actions of these individuals threaten the party’s internal cohesion and long-term stability.
The NWC stressed that disciplinary actions are being considered and that the party will not tolerate acts of disloyalty that undermine its objectives ahead of 2027.
More Defections on the Horizon?
In addition to Adeleke, Wike, and Ortom, several senators, House of Representatives members, and other high-ranking PDP officials have also signaled support for Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
The PDP’s leadership has vowed to address these developments decisively to restore discipline within its ranks.
Peter Obi Responds to PDP Alliance Rumors
In a related development, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, confirmed that discussions are ongoing between himself and the PDP regarding possible political collaboration ahead of the 2027 elections.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, stated that he remains open to alliances with like-minded individuals and parties that align with his vision for Nigeria’s future. His spokesperson, Tanko Yunusa, confirmed the development on Thursday, July 31, in Abuja.
