Abuja, Nigeria — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing escalating tensions ahead of its November 2025 national convention as a brewing feud between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde threatens to derail plans. Once political allies, the two men are now locked in a rivalry that could reshape the party’s internal power balance.
Convention Shift Sparks Speculation
At the party’s 101st NEC meeting, PDP moved its Elective National Convention from Kano to Ibadan, Oyo State, and announced that it would be held on November 15–16, 2025. Observers widely interpret this as an effort to bolster Makinde’s influence. The same meeting also saw the PDP zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a development seen by many as furthering Makinde’s presidential ambitions.
Wike Pushes Back
Nyesom Wike, however, has expressed strong displeasure. He insists the South‑South zonal congress, which elected Dan Orbih as Vice Chairman, must be recognized before any convention can proceed. Wike claims he was not notified of the Ibadan plan and says he will legally challenge the convention unless internal disputes, including the zonal congress and the National Secretary position, are resolved.
Power Play Amid Party Crisis
The conflict deepens a broader power struggle within the PDP between Wike’s loyalists—often aligned with governors like Plateau’s Caleb Mutfwang and Adamawa’s Ahmadu Fintiri—and Makinde’s camp, supported by governors such as Bauchi’s Bala Mohammed and Enugu’s Peter Mbah. Talks have taken place to reconcile differences, though key issues still remain: the National Secretary role, South‑South leadership legitimacy, and Rivers State disputes. Punch
Party Officials Deny Rift
Despite the tension, PDP founding chieftain Earl Osaro Onaiwu dismisses the notion of a feud. He claims rumors are being stoked by political troublemakers and that both Wike and Makinde remain united PDP leaders. He emphasizes that consensus on the Ibadan convention was reached collectively by NEC, NWC, and INEC, and that preparations are progressing smoothly.
Stakes Ahead: Unity or Fragmentation
This showdown carries high stakes: unity for the 2027 election versus further internal fragmentation. The Ibadan convention move is seen by many as consolidating Makinde’s position, while Wike’s resistance suggests a deeper battle for the party’s soul.
As preparations continue, all political eyes are on whether the PDP can resolve these internal conflicts without further alienating factions or risking a breakdown of its electoral readiness.
